Ash Wednesday

Today's Readings:
Jl 2:12-18
Ps 51:3-6, 12-14, 17
2 Cor 5:20-6:2
Mt 6:1-6, 16-18

"We rejoice in the happy fault of Adam and Eve, that merited for us such a savior.' - (Exultet) We prepare for Christ rising from the tomb, though we must go through the passion to get there. We celebrate the season of Lent, we do not mourn it. Today that season begins and as we approach to receive the ashes that remind us of what we are made, let us also remember that we are also have a soul that must be nourished and cared for just as the physical aspect of ourselves. Let us make this season of Lent one in which we renew our faith in God and prepare our hearts so that on Easter morning Christ may truly arise and raise us up as well. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord, help us to leave the darkness of sin behind as we begin this Season of Lent. Guide our thoughts and actions this day, and may we always give glory to you Father through Christ our Lord. Amen

Saint of the Day - St. Caesarius of Nazianzen
Caesarius lived in the fourth century in present-day Turkey. His father was the bishop of Nazianzen. At that time bishops and priests could marry. Caesarius' brother is St. Gregory of Nazianzen, the close friend of St. Basil. Besides being a saint, Gregory is an important writer from the early Church. His books are still read today. Both Caesarius and Gregory received an excellent education. But while Gregory wanted to be a priest, Caesarius wanted to be a medical doctor. Both went to the schools that would help them accomplish their goals. Caesarius completed his studies in medicine at Constantinople. He soon became a well-known and trusted physician. In fact, Emperor Constantius, who lived in Constantinople, wanted Caesarius to be his personal physician. Caesarius thanked the emperor but gently refused. He wanted to go back to Nazianzen, his home city. Some time later, however, Caesarius was again called to serve the emperor at Constantinople. This time it was the man known to history as Julian the apostate. An apostate was someone who gave up his Christian faith. This man had several official orders against the Christians. He was willing to exempt Caesarius, however, since he was such a good doctor. Julian tried to coax the doctor into giving up his faith. Caesarius was offered positions, bribes and privileges. Caesarius' father and brother advised him to refuse the offers. They suggested he return home to practice medicine. In 368, Caesarius was almost killed in an earthquake. He escaped unharmed but was badly shaken by the incident. He felt that God was telling him to live a life of prayer away from the noise and flattery of the court. Caesarius gave away his possessions to the poor. He began to live a quiet, prayerful life. St. Caesarius died shortly after in 369. The homily at his funeral was preached by his brother, St. Gregory.
Reflection: How do I see my particular vocation as a way of serving and loving God in his people?

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/february/0225.asp