In the first reading, St Paul appreciated his fellow-workers. He says “Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ, who risked their necks for my life.” A friend in need is a friend indeed. This was the quality of friendship that existed between St Paul and his fellow workers. They were there for him when it mattered most. They were his pillar of support and strength in his ministry. St Martin of Tours that we celebrate today, was a man who stuck his neck and risked his life for the comfort and well-being of others. Martin was born into a pagan family in the year 316. While a catechumen, moved with compassion, he divided his cloak and gave to a half-naked beggar who was shivering in the cold. He later had a vision that night. Christ appeared to him wearing the cloak with the man’s face. Martin was a compassionate man filled with goodness, mercy and empathy.  To what extent can we go to bring comfort, succour and peace to those in need? Are we willing or ready to risk our lives for the comfort of others? 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, help me to be a good and sincere friend to others. Amen