July 18, St. Camillus de Lellis

His mercy endures forever.--Psalm 136:1

Mass readings: Exodus 12:37-42 / Matthew 12:14-21

Healing a Bruised Reed

In today's Gospel, Jesus is recognized as the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy, ''A bruised reed he will not break, a smoldering wick he will not quench.'' He's the one who personifies tender mercy toward the downtrodden, the battered souls of the world, like Camillus de Lellis (1550-1614). Orphaned from his mother early in life, neglected in his youth, suffering from ill-health, and associating with bad company, Camillus became addicted to gambling and resorted to begging for survival.

A smoldering wick indeed, but one which God breathed back into life against impossible odds. Reminded of his mother's deep faith, Camillus eventually converted, became a priest, and spent his life ministering to the sick and the derelicts of society. A bruised reed himself, Camillus became a healer of bruises.

Prayer: St. Camillus, pray for the hopeless that they will rediscover life in Jesus' tender mercy.