November 16, St. Margaret of Scotland

Give me life, O Lord, and I will do your commands.-- Psalm 119:(see 88)

Mass readings: 1 Maccabees 1:10-15,41-43,54-57,62-63 / Luke 18:35-43

Saved to Serve

Margaret (1045-1093) was no stranger to hardship. Her family was exiled in Hungary due to the Danish invasion of England. During her youth, the family fled the invading army of William the Conqueror, and along the way, their ship was wrecked. They were saved by King Malcolm of Scotland, who later married Margaret, making her Queen of Scotland. Queen Margaret, however, did not recline in the lap of luxury, but used her position to serve the cause of justice and worked hard to improve social conditions for the poor.

In today's Gospel, a blind man cries out to Jesus for help. When Jesus restores his sight, the man begins to follow Jesus, glorifying God, and his testimony leads many to praise God. Jesus saves us -- then sends us out to serve in His Kingdom.

Prayer: Jesus, my Savior, strengthen me in Your service today.