Memorial of Saint
Bonaventure, Doctor of the Church
(Exodus3:1-6.9-12; Matthew 11:25-27)
An edifying story is told of St. Bonaventure which
demonstrates the humility Jesus praises in the gospel today. St.
Bonaventure was a very learned man who has been named a doctor of the Church. Still, according to the story, he was humble
enough to recognize greater genius in others.
It is said that the pope announced a poetry contest in
praise of the Holy Eucharist. Both men Bonaventure
and his colleague St. Thomas Aquinas submitted entries. On the day of competition, Thomas read his
work first -- the famous “Pange Lingua”
which we still sing today. According to
the story, Bonaventure listened to Thomas’ words, wept in adoration, and tore
up his own entry.
We do not have to write glorious poetry to give God praise. Like those whom Jesus recommends to his
Father in the gospel, we only have to respond with loving faith to God’s
goodness.
