Saint Peter Claver (1581-1654)
for September 9
Peter Claver was born in Spain and went to Colombia in South America as a missionary to serve the African slaves who had been taken there to be sold in the New World. For years he would meet the ships and bring food and medicine to the slaves, who were herded out in chains to be sold like animals. Peter preached to them of their own goodness and of God’s love for them. Not only was Saint Peter Claver’s life built on the solid rock of belief in God’s love, but he passed that on to those he served. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")
Read more about Saint Peter Claver (1581-1654)
Reflection
Saint Peter Claver truly internalized Jesus' message of compassion and love to all, especially the forgotten, the poor, and the sick. At a time when nobody felt compassion for, let alone helped, African slaves, Saint Peter Claver devoted his life to helping them. In many people's eyes, this likely made Saint Peter Claver an outcast. Are there people, or groups of people, in your life or your community who are often despised and looked down on? How could you more fully love them as Saint Peter Claver loved the slaves?
Prayer
Dear Jesus, please help those who are currently persecuted to feel and know your love for them. Help me to recognize opportunities to show others your compassion and love.
