Feast of Saint Francis Xavier

"Wait for the LORD with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD." - Psalm 27:14

Often in my life I find myself desiring perfection. Even in writing this brief reflection I found myself stressed out over what I should write, and how it needs to inspire those who read the words I would transcribe. I have tried for hours to put words down, yet I have found myself toiling aimlessly for my own glory for words that mean nothing to me. I, then, set myself to refocus using on of my favorite saints, Francis Xavier, S.J.

Every time I sit and meditate on the life of Francis, I feel humbled by God. Each and every one of us is called to be saints, holy men and women of God. But what does it take to walk in the path of sainthood? Mother Theresa once asked up to "give until it hurt, then give some more." Our very Savior, as well as the martyrs, gave their last drops of blood. St. Francis Xavier left everything he knew; his friends, family, and his order to follow where called called him. Francis sailed around Africa, through India and Southeast Asia, up to Japan, and ended outside China. Everything he did was for the glory of God. From risking his life on a ship for many years to teaching and converting the many different people he came across. Francis gave absolutely everything he had for his mission.

Now, we have all walked this path before. The "yes" which was so emphatic and inspired on Sunday, now fades, awaiting renewal. As the weeks wear on, and though Christmas seems like a distance away, consider St. Francis and his mission. Though not all of us are called to drop everything and follow, we are always called to make little sacrifices in our days. In Advent, we are reminded of Christ's coming Kingdom, of his triumphant return; but we must remain vigilant. Let us ask for the grace to see the little ways to sacrifice in your day-to-day life.

What can we do in the coming weeks to remind ourselves of our path to dwell with God?

That is, what can we do to strengthen ourselves as we await the coming Kingdom?

reflected by Matthew Keppel