September 17, 2018 
Monday of the Twenty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time
Saint of the day
Saint Robert Bellarmine (1542-1621)
Saint Robert Bellarmine was a theologian and Scripture scholar. He was a Jesuit priest who was made a cardinal because the pope said, “He had not his equal for learning.” In spite of his brilliance and honors, Robert ate only the food available to the poor and used the hangings in his room to clothe poor people. He said, “The walls won’t catch cold.” The seed of God’s word found good soil in Robert Bellarmine. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")
Reflection
Saint Robert Bellarmine truly lived in solidarity with the poor. The Church teaches that, regardless of our position in life, we are to identify with and, as best as we can, care for the poor. Even Saint Robert Bellarmine, who held the highly honorable position of a cardinal, managed to live in solidarity with the poor. Do you live in solidarity with the poor? Think about the plight of the poor and try to empathize with their plight.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, please help me to empathize with those less fortunate than I am. Help me to spread your love and compassion to them.
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 443
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Green
Daily readings
Reading 1: 1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 17
Alleluia: John 3:16
Gospel: Luke 7:1-10
View complete readings on USCCB.org
