Memorial of St. Francis Xavier (Priest)
Theme: You are a labourer
Today the church celebrates the memorial of St. Francis Xavier, a priest. He is popularly referred to as one of the main persons who brought Christianity to India; he worked zealously for the propagation of the faith. He was among the first seven members of the Society of Jesus (Also known as the Jesuits).
In the gospel reading of today, Jesus throws an invitation to all of us as children of God, to partake in his ministry of winning souls for the kingdom of God. There is a lot to be done, but the workers are few. The big question today is, are you ready to be one of the workers in the vineyard of the Lord? It is an open invitation that is not limited to any individual or group; it is not about the consecrated men and women, it is rather about all of us as children of God. St. Francis Xavier whose memorial we celebrate today is one of those who accepted this invitation of Christ and gave everything to enthrone God’s kingdom in the places he ministered. There are so many other great men and women who accepted this invitation and gave all they had to propagate the good news of the kingdom of God.
May brothers and sisters in Christ, do not count yourself out of this invitation, because you feel you are not worthy to carry out this sacred assignment. What is more important is your disposition to be an instrument, through which the word of God will be taken to the ends of the earth. None of us is qualified to carry out this sacred task, but when he calls or invites us; he qualifies us. Just know that we are all broken people and we are not perfect, but the grace of God is more than enough to make us capable for the work in the vineyard. Do not allow your present situation or life or any individual to tell you that you are not good enough for the job; the grace of God that qualified St. Augustine of Hippo, St. Paul and some others will also qualify you.
Trust in God and do your best and see how God will transform you into a worthy instrument in his hands. May almighty God bless you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Peace be with you.