The Face of Christ

Today's Readings:
Dt 34:1-12
Ps 66
Mt 18:15-20

Today we hear Christ's promise that "where two or three or gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." The Lord is always present to us each and every day, the question is are we present to him? Do we recognize the Lord's presence within us and within those we meet? Today let us strive to see the face of Christ in all of our brothers and sisters, and allow him to shine through all that we do as well. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord our God, help us this day to see you in all of those we meet this day, especially in those in whom we struggle with the most. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Saint of the Day - St. Porcarius & Companions
In the fifth century, a large abbey for monks was built off the coast of Provence, which is southern France today. It was called the abbey of Lerins. The abbey was filled with many holy monks. By the eighth century, the community of Lerins was made up of monks, novices, students and young men interested in becoming monks. There were over five hundred men. Around 732, Abbot Porcarius had some kind of a revelation or premonition. The monastery was about to be attacked by barbarian invaders. Abbot Porcarius packed all the students and thirty-six of the younger monks onto a boat. He sent them off to safety. Because there were no more boats, he gathered the remainder of the community around him. Nobody complained about being left behind. Instead, they prayed together for courage. They asked the Lord for the gift to forgive their enemies. Soon Saracens from Spain or North Africa landed their ships. They attacked the monks, just as the abbot had predicted. The monks prayed and encouraged one another to bravely suffer and die for Christ. The attackers pounced on their prey and killed all but four who were carried off as slaves. St. Porcarius and the monks of Lerins had become brave martyrs for Jesus.
Reflection: If I am in a position of leadership, do I see my responsibility as one of service to others?

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/august/0812.asp