Memorial of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church

The seventy-two disciples returned rejoicing and said to Jesus, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name.” Jesus said, “I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky. Behold, I have given you the power ‘to tread upon serpents’ and scorpions and upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”

The gifts, talents, and authorities we have in this world are meant to help us get to heaven, not to make us powerful or popular. Our names are not written in heaven because of our abilities or power, but because we live the Christ-like life. We need to cultivate a humble spirit so that we don't get caught up in our successes and start believing more in ourselves than in God and His Graces. So let us trust in God, who gives us everything good and rejoice not in ourselves, but in the fact that our Heavenly Father loves us enough to give us the gifts, talents, and powers we need to overcome every obstacle and produce good works.

What are the gifts, talents, and powers God has given us? Do we rejoice in what He has given us? Do we thank God for everything He has done for us?

O Lord, we rejoice in being your good and faithful servants.

Amen.