Memorial of Saint John of the Cross, Priest and Doctor of the Church

Responsorial Psalm

Ps 145:1 and 9, 10-11, 12-13ab

R. (8) The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger, and of great kindness.

I will extol you, O my God and King,

and I will bless your name forever and ever.

The LORD is good to all

and compassionate toward all his works.

R. The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger, and of great kindness.

Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD,

and let your faithful ones bless you.

Let them discourse of the glory of your Kingdom

and speak of your might.

R. The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger, and of great kindness.

Let them make known to men your might

and the glorious splendor of your Kingdom.

Your Kingdom is a Kingdom for all ages,

and your dominion endures through all generations.

R. The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger, and of great kindness.

Reflection

Today we celebrate Saint John of the Cross, he was born in 1542 and was ordained a Carmelite Priest at the age of 25. He met Saint Therese of Avila and decided to help her reform the Order. He endured much opposition, hardships and persecutions. He lived his life with the Holy Cross in mind. Because of the reform, he was thrown in prison. While in prison he would be taken out and publicly humiliated and flogged. It was during this time that he wrote the most beautiful poetry that would become the basis for his spiritual writings. He lived the life of the Cross and found the light of Christ in his sufferings. He embraced his Cross and would give praise and glory to God with all he endured.

How did Saint John of the Cross find Jesus through the Cross? How did he find love where there was no love?

Here are three quotes from Saint John of the Cross that can help us in our daily struggles.

“In tribulation immediately draw near to God with confidence, and you will receive strength, enlightenment, and instruction.”

“Strive to preserve your heart in peace; let no event of this world disturb it.”

“It is great wisdom to know how to be silent and to look at neither the remarks, nor the deeds, nor the lives of others.”