Today’s feast day celebrates a great defender of the Church and true doctrine—the great bishop, teacher, and church father, Saint Ambrose. As a leader, he steered the Church through crises of heresy. He also mentored another great saint, Saint Augustine.

Saint Ambrose came from a noble family and served as governor of Milan. During that time, Christians who had separated from the Church (Arians) and Catholics were in perpetual conflict.  Saint Ambrose’s example and leadership led both groups to acclaim him as a bishop, even before full reconciliation had occurred between the two groups. We can look to Saint Ambrose as an intercessor in our lives wherever relationships are broken—within our families, friendships, and communities. One key consequence of a life of addiction is broken relationships, and this is precisely where Saint Ambrose can be a great friend and advocate for us.

Saint Ambrose also brought the prodigal son, Saint Augustine, into the Catholic Church from a life of debauchery and sin. Saint Augustine’s wisdom has been admired throughout the ages but we cannot forget his mentor and guide: Saint Ambrose. We can ask Saint Ambrose to instill within us a love of wisdom and Church doctrine as well as a desire for continued growth in our recovery as we reflect on the saint’s wisdom:

“Consider how great God is. He seeks the hearts of all. He seeks into the inner conscience; He knows all things before they occur; He knows the hidden thoughts in our heart, and do we still want to hide from God?” (The Life of St. Ambrose)

Reflection Questions

• Which do you find yourself inclined toward: faith or action? How do you strive to keep both in balance?
• How are you working to improve your relationships with others? What needs to be reconciled and turned over to God in prayer?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Daniel 7:2-14
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118:1 and 8-9, 19-21, 25-27a
Gospel: Matthew 7:21, 24-27

Reflection by Bill B.