March 1, 2017
Ash Wednesday
Saint of the day
Saint David of Wales (520-589)
Saint David of Wales was a priest, missionary, and monk. He established several monasteries and was known for his simple lifestyle. After attending a synod, his fellow monks were so impressed by his expressiveness and clarity that they elected him primate of their region. He acted as head of his diocese until an advanced age. It is said that once, while he was preaching, a dove landed on his shoulder and the Earth beneath his feet rose up so he could be heard by everyone. His last words were, "Be joyful, brothers and sisters. Keep your faith, and do the little things that you have seen and heard with me." Saint David of Wales was canonized in 1120 and is the patron of doves and of Wales.
Reflection
Saint David of Wales used his expressiveness and clarity to aid him in his preaching. If you are gifted at public speaking, do you use your gift to proclaim the Good News? If public speaking is something that frightens you, do you use your other gifts and talents to share the word of God with others?
Prayer
Jesus, my model and my brother, sustain me as I try to courageously proclaim your Gospel message through my words and my life’s actions. (Taken from “Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.”)
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 219
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Violet
Daily readings
Reading 1: Joel 2:12-18
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 12-13, 14 and 17
Reading 2: 2 Corinthians 5:20—6:2
Verse Before the Gospel: see ps 95:8
Gospel: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18
View complete readings on USCCB.org