September 26, 2012 
Wednesday of the Twenty-fifth Week in Ordinary Time
Saint of the day
Sts. Cosmos and Damian (d.303)
Cosmos and Damian were killed for their Christian faith. Other than the fact that they were martyrs, we know little about them. Legend says that they were twins who were skilled doctors in Arabia. They are venerated in that part of the world as “the moneyless ones” because they took care of poor people and didn’t charge for their medical services. People who provide health care for others share in a special way in Christ’s healing ministry. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")
Reflection
Saints Cosmos and Damian have important lessons for us today. In addition to the courage and faith exemplified through their martyrdom, their lives highlight the importance of emulating every facet of Jesus' life. As physicians devoted to providing free medical care for the poor, Cosmos and Damian followed Jesus' example of healing the sick and poor. Today, in our society, we constantly debate the extent to which we should provide free assistance for the poor and sick. The lives of Saints Cosmos and Damian settle the debate loudly and clearly.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, heal me of all physical, emotional, and spiritual afflictions. Please help to create a world in which all of the poor and sick are adequately cared for.
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 451
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Green
Daily readings
Reading 1: Proverbs 30:5-9
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:29, 72, 89, 101, 104, 163
Gospel: Luke 9:1-6
View complete readings on USCCB.orgMeditations
Meditation for Reading 1
This wisdom saying of Agur in the Book of Proverbs gives us pause today as it did then. Having lived a long life, he now is asking to receive what he has figured out is most important. He does not want lies, but the truth. He does not want to be rich or poor because either might lead him away from God. He only wants the food that he needs. What nourishment do you want to feed you to allow you to live a good life? Is it wisdom, integrity, honesty, love of others? Is it fame or fortune? Is it safety, peace, or family and friends? A wise person knows the things that will lead us to God and the things that will lead us away from God. (Taken from “Take Ten – Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)
