- Feb 5, 2002
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Today is August 23, the optional memorial of St. Rose of Lima.
We read at today’s Mass, “The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Mt 23:11-12).
St. Rose of Lima, the first canonized saint of the Americas, shows us what true humility looks like. From her youth, she consecrated herself to God, setting her heart on him alone. She lived in a small hut in her parents’ backyard, devoting herself to penance and prayer. Rose turned away from marriage and worldly honors, preferring instead to be hidden with Christ.
Her humility was most striking in the way she responded to criticism. Rose was unfazed by personal attacks, accepting ridicule in silence. Her canonization process attests, “Many were amazed that the young girl said nothing to those who made charges against her personally, but quickly resisted the slightest offense against God.” Yet the moment someone dishonored God, mocked the Church or encouraged sin, she responded firmly.
She had no concern for her own reputation but was quick to defend the honor of Christ. That is why her witness speaks so powerfully to today’s Gospel reading: “Whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
Continued below.
www.oursundayvisitor.com
We read at today’s Mass, “The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Mt 23:11-12).
St. Rose of Lima, the first canonized saint of the Americas, shows us what true humility looks like. From her youth, she consecrated herself to God, setting her heart on him alone. She lived in a small hut in her parents’ backyard, devoting herself to penance and prayer. Rose turned away from marriage and worldly honors, preferring instead to be hidden with Christ.
Her humility was most striking in the way she responded to criticism. Rose was unfazed by personal attacks, accepting ridicule in silence. Her canonization process attests, “Many were amazed that the young girl said nothing to those who made charges against her personally, but quickly resisted the slightest offense against God.” Yet the moment someone dishonored God, mocked the Church or encouraged sin, she responded firmly.
She had no concern for her own reputation but was quick to defend the honor of Christ. That is why her witness speaks so powerfully to today’s Gospel reading: “Whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
Exalted in Christ
Continued below.
The strength found in being small
St. Rose of Lima shows us the power of humility, steadfast prayer and courageous love in defending God’s truth and living the Gospel fully.
www.oursundayvisitor.com
