October 4, St. Francis of Assisi

Lord, let your face shine on me.--Psalm 119:135

Mass readings: Job 42:1-3,5-6,12-17 / Luke 10:17-24

Rewards of Discipleship

Scripture tells us that discipleship won't be easy. In fact, we must be willing to lose our life for the sake of the Gospel. Yet, we have God's promise that following Christ will bring us rewards today and eternal life tomorrow. Job was tested severely by God but, after weathering many trials, he received back more than he lost. The 72 disciples return overjoyed that they were able to act in their Master's name. Similarly, St. Francis suffered personal rejection and the physical agony of the stigmata, but he also received the gift of God's peace.

We must understand our discipleship won't be easy, but God will grant us many blessings as well. Let us place our trust in God and commit ourselves to discipleship this day.

Prayer: Lord, as St. Francis prayed, ''Make me an instrument of your peace!''