Acts 11: 1-18/ Ps 42: 2-3; 43:3-4/ Jn 10:11-18/Mt 13:54-58

Theme: Light to the nations through our work

Reflection:
The call of God to be holy is to all nations. This holiness is not experienced and lived within the vicinity of the church only, but in all that we do. Vatican II Document, implored Christians to be light to all peoples, and sanctify even places before seen as secular especially their work places (cf, Lumen Gentium, nos. 9-17). Today, the Church gives us St. Joseph the worker, Patron of workers, to guide us as we appreciate the dignity of our labours, and invite us, through our various works, to win souls for God. According to the first reading, God has opened the door of salvation to all peoples, and we are supposed to be the living doors of salvation. When we give our best to our work, we lay down our life for others. Our work and life must show concern for the salvation of others. We must not be like the hired servant, whose sole aim is profit, and not the good of others. Our work must aim at enhancing life and making our communities better.
 
Prayer: Father, thank you for the gift of St. Joseph as a sign of the dignity of labour. May I, through my work, both save my soul and win souls for you. Amen.