Memorial of Saint
Dominic, priest
(Nahum 2:1.3.3:1-3.6-7; Matthew 16:24-28)
Dominicans speak of St. Dominic as the “joyful friar.” He demonstrated great happiness just being with
others people. Blessed Jordan of Saxony,
his successor as head of the Dominican Order, wrote that he rejoiced with all
who rejoiced. And, again: "During the
day, no one showed himself more sociable than he ... Conversely, by night,
there was none more assiduous than he in keeping watch in prayer.”
No doubt, what made Dominic so joyful was the good news
that he loved to share. In his recent
apostolic exhortation Pope Francis emphasizes this joy. It comes from not just hearing about Jesus
but encountering him in life. He is
there, although hidden, in our family and friends who worship with us, in the
poor who need our assistance, in mystical experiences where we feel his
presence, as well as in Scripture and the sacraments, especially the Eucharist.
In every case he gives shape to our lives by assuring us that we are not just “here
today and gone tomorrow” but have an eternal destiny. We rejoice because we will have his life-giving
companionship forever.
But we must not take Jesus for granted. He gives himself for us and commands us to
love one another likewise. It is not
only a matter of being nice to others when it is convenient and they take
notice. We have to seek their welfare even
when it costs us discomfort, even (really especially) when no one is looking.
