Ministering to those in need

Today's Readings:
Is 42:1-7
Ps 27:1-3, 13-14
Jn 12:1-11

How gentle and caring is our God, Isaiah tells us that "a bruised reed he shall not break, and a smoldering wick he shall not quench..." Yet in doing this, he is not only caring for each of us, but letting us know how we are to care for one another. We are to reach out to those who struggle with their faith, their academics, or with themselves; we are all 'bruised' in some way or another, the question is do minister to each other when we see them in need? Today let us truly take the example of love God has shown us and do the same for all we meet this day. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, you strengthen us when we are weak and stir the spark of faith into a flame of love for you; help us this day to take this example and do the same for all of our brothers and sisters this day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Saint of the Day - Blessed Notker
This Benedictine monk had once been a sickly child. He had a very noticeable speech impediment all his life. Notker was determined not to let it get in his way. This made him even more likable than he already was. He and two other friends, Tutilo and Radpert, were very happy monks. They encouraged each other in their vocations at the monastery of Saint Gall in Germany. Their common love for God and for music made them lifelong friends. You can read about St. Tutilo on March 28. King Charles visited the great monastery from time to time. He highly respected Notker and asked him for advice. Unfortunately, he didn't usually follow the advice. One time King Charles sent his messenger to ask to see the monk. Notker was taking care of his garden. He sent this message: "Take care of your garden as I am taking care of mine." King Charles understood that he should be taking better care of his own soul and of his kingdom. The king's personal chaplain was educated but very conceited. He was upset because the king valued Notker's opinion so much. In front of everybody at court one day, he asked Notker, "Since you are so intelligent, tell me what God is doing right now." The priest smiled at the monk, thinking he would never have an answer. Instead, Notker responded quickly, "God is doing now what he has always done. He is pushing down those who are proud and is raising up the lowly." The people started laughing as the chaplain quickly left the room. Blessed Notker spent the rest of his life in his chosen vocation. He did many little extra things to make monastery life pleasant for the monks. With his friends, Tutilo and Radpert, he created beautiful music for the worship of God.
Reflection: "God is doing now what he has always done. He is pushing down those who are proud and is raising up the lowly."-Blessed Notker

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0406.asp