June 13, 2011
Memorial of St. Anthony of Padua
We are treated as deceivers and yet are truthful; as unrecognized and yet acknowledged; as dying and behold we live; as chastised and yet not put to death; as sorrowful yet always rejoicing; as poor yet enriching many; as having nothing and yet possessing all things. 2 Corinthians 6:8b-10
But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on (your) right cheek, turn the other one to him as well. If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand him your cloak as well. Matthew 5:39-40
Piety
O Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of Saints, your love for God and Charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me what I have lost. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms; and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen.
Study
What is the Christian experience? Today's first reading and Gospel hint that the experience will be the diametrical OPPOSITE of success in the world.
In Corinthians, St. Paul presents to us a series of seven negative external expressions which are counterbalanced with positive inner reality. The notes to the New American Bible point out that "Paul perceives his existence as a reflection of Jesus' own and affirms an inner reversal that escapes outward observation."
The Gospel from Matthew expands upon this theme and asks us to react with love to injustice that we may personally face in the world. Our temptation is for revenge. Our demand is for justice. Yet Jesus says we must imitate his model and forgive those who do harm to us…behavior that the external world will not understand.
Action
Often we turn to St. Anthony for intercession when we lose something of value. Growing up, we prayed to St. Anthony when we lost a book, a ring, or some physical possession.
However, take this one step further. When have you felt lost? When has your pursuit of piety or study or action slacked off -- or worse was interrupted by an overwhelming desire for control or other worldly pursuits and temptations. During these times as well to turn to St. Anthony to find you and get you back on track.
Read the story of Blessed Franz Jägerstätter, layman and martyr on the Vatican web site. (http://www.vatican.va/news_services/liturgy/saints/ns_lit_doc_20071026_jagerstatter_en.html). He refused to go into the German army and was executed. As the biography tells us, "Franz Jägerstätter, who would not bow his head to Hitler, bowed his head to God, and the guillotine took care of the rest. He was obviously called up to serve a higher order."
He provides a perfect example of someone offered no resistance to the forces of evil. He is one who was in a perfect union with God and refused to be swayed by the political and military forces in his country.
