Aug 31, 2025 | DAILY BREAD
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Readings: Ecclesiasticus 3:19-21,30-31; Hebrews 12:18-19,22-24a
The wisdom of Scripture reminds us that God delights in those who are gentle and humble, for through such hearts He can work freely. Pride seeks to control and dominate, but humility opens space for God’s grace to act. This humility reaches its fullness in Jesus Christ, the mediator of the new covenant, who reveals that true greatness is found in lowering oneself for the sake of others. His way is not marked by fear, like Israel trembling at Sinai, but by the joy of coming to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, where mercy and love triumph. To walk in humility is not weakness, but strength under God’s guidance, it is the path by which we resemble Christ most closely. In a world that prizes power and self-promotion, today’s readings call us to rediscover the beauty of a meek heart that allows God’s power, not our own, to shape our lives and the lives of those around us. Let’s reflect: Do I allow humility and gentleness to shape my life so that, like Christ, I become an instrument through whom God’s grace and the joy of His new covenant can shine?
Don Giorgio
Aug 30, 2025 | DAILY BREAD
Saturday memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Saturday of week 21 in Ordinary Time
First reading: 1 Thessalonians 4:9-11
Saint Paul reminds us that the source of our love for one another is God Himself, “You have been taught by God to love each other.” Love is not just a human capacity but a divine gift that flows from the heart of God into our lives, shaping our relationships and communities. Paul also encourages progress, reminding us that love is never static; it must deepen, expand, and mature each day. This invitation to growth is beautifully reflected in Mary, who, filled with God’s love, carried Christ into the world and lived her life in quiet, faithful service. Her example shows us that true love is expressed in simplicity—listening, caring, and working peacefully for the good of others. As we grow in love, we become living reflections of God’s presence, and our daily lives, however ordinary, become instruments of His grace. Let’s reflect: Am I allowing God to teach me how to love more deeply each day, making steady progress in simple acts of care and service like Mary did?
Don Giorgio
Aug 29, 2025 | DAILY BREAD
The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist
First reading: Jeremiah 1:17-19
God promises Jeremiah strength beyond human limits: “I will make you into a fortified city, a pillar of iron, and a wall of bronze.” These images speak of the transformation that happens when God is with us—fear gives way to courage, weakness becomes resilience, and frailty is clothed in divine power. This strength is not for self-protection but for faithful witness, even in the face of opposition and rejection. On this day we remember the beheading of Saint John the Baptist, a man who embodied this promise with his life. His voice did not falter before kings, nor did his integrity bend to public pressure; he stood firm as a witness to truth, even unto death. The prophet Jeremiah and John the Baptist remind us of that discipleship often demands courage to confront what is unjust and to remain faithful when the cost is high. God’s assurance is that we are never alone, He Himself makes us unshakable when we stand in His truth. Let’s reflect: Am I willing to let God make me strong and unshakable in faith, like Jeremiah and John the Baptist, so that I can stand for truth and remain faithful even when it is costly?
Don Giorgio
Aug 28, 2025 | DAILY BREAD
Saint Augustine, Bishop, Doctor
Thursday of week 21 in Ordinary Time
First reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:7-13
Saint Paul speaks of the joy and consolation he receives from the steadfast faith of the Thessalonians, even in the midst of his own troubles. Their faith becomes his comfort, their perseverance his encouragement. This reminds us that faith is never an isolated possession but a gift that strengthens others when it is lived with authenticity. Our perseverance in Christ has ripple effects, often unseen, that can give courage and hope to those struggling around us. On this feast of Saint Augustine, we see the same truth embodied: his mother Monica’s persistent faith became the source of his conversion, and his own transformation in turn became a pillar of strength for the Church through his writings and witness. Augustine’s life shows us that the faith we live not only saves us but becomes a beacon for others. When our trust in God remains strong, even in hardship, we become instruments of joy and encouragement, revealing how God is alive and faithful in His people. Let’s reflect: Does my faith in Christ radiate in such a way that it brings encouragement, joy, and consolation to others, even when I face my own struggles?
Don Giorgio
Aug 27, 2025 | DAILY BREAD
Saint Monica
Wednesday of week 21 in Ordinary Time
First reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13
Saint Paul reminds the Thessalonians of how he and his companions lived among them: working hard not to be a burden, treating them with fatherly concern, and encouraging each one to live a life worthy of God. His example teaches us how to behave in community, with responsibility, integrity, and mutual care. “Not to burden anyone, treating everyone as a father treats his children and constantly thanking God for others”. A Christian community is not built on words alone but on actions of love, sacrifice, and encouragement that reflect the Gospel. On the feast of Saint Monica, we see this truth embodied in her tireless perseverance and prayer for her son Augustine, whose conversion became one of the greatest gifts to the Church. Monica’s witness shows that living well in community is not just about external behavior but about faithfulness, patience, and the willingness to carry others in prayer and love until God’s grace transforms them. To belong to the Body of Christ means letting our daily conduct, words, and attitudes become a visible expression of the God who calls us to His Kingdom. Let’s reflect: Am I living in my community with integrity, love, and perseverance, like Saint Paul in his example and Saint Monica in her prayer, so that my life encourages others to walk more faithfully with God?
Don Giorgio
