February 9, 2017
Thursday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
Saint of the day
Saint Ansbert (d.695)
Saint Ansbert was chancellor to King Clotaire III of France. As chancellor, and a member of the court, Ansbert enjoyed a life of luxury and influence. However, he did not feel that he was fully serving God in his position, and decided to become a monk. He joined the monastery at Frontenelle, and served as confessor to a king of the Ostrogoths. Ansbert was appointed bishop of Rouen, but, like so many of us, got caught up in the secular matters of the time. He was exiled to the Hautmont Monastery by the mayor of the royal palace, where he passed away from natural causes.
Reflection
Saint Ansbert was very dedicated to serving God, but still got caught up in materialistic and secular matters. Do you tend to get too caught up in everything that is going on in your life, and forget to spend time with the Lord? Ask God to help you focus more deeply on your faith, and to always turn to him when you need guidance and strength.
Prayer
Gentle God, it’s easy to become obsessed with the details of my life. Help me to keep them in focus and always to turn to you for guidance and strength. (Taken from “Good News Day by Day: Bible Reflections for Teens.”)
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 332
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Green
Daily readings
Reading 1: Genesis 2:18-25
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 128:1-2, 3, 4-5
Alleluia: James 1:21bc
Gospel: Mark 7:24-30
View complete readings on USCCB.org