Memorial of Saint Martin of Tours, Bishop

Now to him who can strengthen you, according to my Gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret for long ages but now manifested through the prophetic writings and, according to the command of the eternal God, made known to all nations to bring about the obedience of faith, to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ be glory forever and ever. Amen.

At the end of his letter to the Romans, Paul speaks of various Gentiles and Jews who have helped him or the Church in some way. By doing so, he reminds us of the universality of the Christian faith. Afterward, he gives us a hymn of praise to God for all He has revealed to the people of His newborn Church. He speaks of the strength God gives His followers through grace and the truth He has given through Jesus’ life and the prophetic writings of the Scriptures. He points out all God has done for us is meant to bring about the obedience of faith. It is this faith that unites and binds us together as Christians and leads us to lives guided by love and mercy. Lives which proclaim the Gospel to all the world.

Who are the people in our lives who have helped us live our faith? How have we helped them and others to grow in holiness? What can we do to build up the Church and our love of God?

O Lord, glory be to you forever and ever.

Amen.