The Call

Today's Readings:
1 Sm 24:3-21
Ps 57:3-4, 6, 11
Mk 3:13-19

In the Gospel we see Jesus calling his apostles to himself; in doing so he knew how each would respond. He knew most would run when the time came for his crucifixion, that Peter would deny him, and that Judas would betray him. He also knew that 11 out of the 12 would return and be filled with the Holy Spirit and go out to preach the good news. They all had free will and Jesus gave them the opportunity to use it, while praying they would give themselves over to God. The same is true for us; we have been called by Christ to follow him, the question is what have we done with that call? Today let us ask the Lord to help us follow him and him alone. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord you know our hearts, fill us with your grace and love so that we may always follow you. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen

Saint of the Day - St. Vincent of Saragossa
Vincent was martyred in Spain in 304. This was the same year that Agnes was martyred in Rome. They both were victims of the cruel persecution of Emperor Dacian. Vincent had grown up in Saragossa, Spain. He was educated by the bishop, St. Valerius. The bishop had made Vincent a deacon. Even though Vincent was quite young, Valerius recognized his talents and goodness. Bishop Valerius asked him to preach and teach about Jesus and the Church. Emperor Dacian arrested both Valerius and Vincent. He kept them in jail for a long time. They would not let themselves become downhearted. Both remained faithful to Jesus. Then the emperor sent Bishop Valerius into exile, but he sent Deacon Vincent to be cruelly tortured. Vincent asked the Holy Spirit for strength. He wanted to be true to Jesus no matter how terrible things would be for him. The Lord granted him that strength. Deacon Vincent remained peaceful through all his sufferings. When the torture sessions were over, he was returned to prison where he converted the jailer. Finally, the emperor gave in and permitted people to visit Vincent. The Christians came and cared for his wounds. They tried their best to make him comfortable. It was not long before he died.
Reflection: Let us pray today in the words of St. Vincent: "God fill us with your Spirit and strengthen us in your love."

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0122.asp