As for hope, there were countless events in Saint Pio’s life that would have left anyone without hope. His physical sufferings were one thing, but he was also persecuted by his own brethren in the monastery, probed by scientists, and called a fraud. He was not permitted to preach at Mass and essentially lived under house arrest for years. But amid this, he joyfully carried out his duties with hope in God’s care.
The fruit of a hopeful attitude is, therefore, not to worry. When we have hope in the power of God and in the presence of Jesus, we can surrender our fears, anxieties, and concerns and live without the nagging worries that drag us down. Saint Pio’s ministry did not end with amazing miracles. His care for the sick moved him to build a hospital and his care for the faithful put in him the confessional for many hours every day. He is a great model who shows us how hope, prayer, and action can work together for the glory of God. Saint Pio, pray for us!
Reflection Questions
- How can you hope, pray, and not worry as much today?
- How do you balance hope, prayer, and action in your life?
Daily Mass Readings
First Reading: Proverbs 30:5-9
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:29, 72, 89, 101, 104, 163
Gospel: Luke 9:1-6
Reflection by Bill B.