Memorial of Saint Martin of Tours, bishop
(II John 4-9; Luke 17:26-37)
Jesus’ disciples, like the Pharisees, want to know when and
where the kingdom of God will appear.
Perhaps they want to look their best when it arrives. Jesus, however, does not give either party a
definite answer. He does say, however, “…the
kingdom of God is among you.” He means that his personal presence as the long-awaited
Christ presages the kingdom.
The saints, shadows of the Christ, likewise herald the
kingdom of God. Today’s patron, St. Martin
of Tours, provides a sterling example. Trained
as a soldier, Martin refused to fight and was discharged. Later, he became a monk and then, against his
will, named bishop of Tours in today’s France.
He converted many pagans, opposed Christian heresies, and devoted
himself to reconciliation.
The kingdom of God remains among us. We are called to be images of Christ showing
the love of the kingdom to the world. We
should make no mistake about what this requires. Like a super-athlete we must train, train,
train. That is, we must pray, study, and
offer penance. As a result, we will leave
the world a better place to find for ourselves a place in glory.
