Episode 2912: The Courage to Carry the Cross - Morning Episode

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The Courage to Carry the Cross
Thank you for joining me for today's episode. On February 3, 2025, we honor the Feast of St. Blaise, Bishop and Martyr. We'll reflect on the Scripture readings from the 1962 Roman Missal, learn about St. Blaise and other saints commemorated today, and meditate on themes relevant to our faith journey. We'll close with a prayer asking for St. Blaise's intercession. Let's begin by opening our hearts to God’s word.
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1. Scripture Readings from the 1962 Roman Missal (Mass of St. Blaise)
Epistle: Hebrews 13:1-17
"Brethren: Let charity remain among you. And hospitality do not forget, for by this some, being not aware of it, have entertained angels... Obey your prelates and be subject to them. For they watch as being to render an account of your souls: that they may do this with joy, and not with grief."
Reflection:
The Epistle reminds us of the importance of charity and obedience. St. Blaise, as a shepherd of souls, exemplified these virtues through his care for his flock and his steadfastness even unto martyrdom. His life was a testament to the joy that comes from faithfully serving God and His people.
Gospel: Matthew 16:24-27
"At that time, Jesus said to His disciples: If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For he that will save his life shall lose it: and he that shall lose his life for My sake shall find it."
Reflection:
In the Gospel, Our Lord calls us to take up our cross and follow Him. St. Blaise answered this call by willingly facing persecution and death rather than renouncing his faith. His example challenges us to embrace our crosses with courage, trusting that God will lead us to eternal life.
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2. Traditional and Historical Saints for February 3
St. Blaise, Bishop and Martyr:
St. Blaise was a 4th-century bishop from Sebaste in Armenia. He is best known for miraculously saving a boy who was choking on a fishbone. For this reason, he is invoked as the patron saint of throat ailments. The traditional blessing of throats is given on this day in many Catholic parishes.
St. Ansgar, Bishop and Missionary (Optional Commemoration):
St. Ansgar, known as the Apostle of the North, was a 9th-century missionary who evangelized Scandinavia. His life was marked by perseverance and devotion to spreading the Gospel.
Spiritual Lesson:
Both saints remind us of the importance of steadfastness in faith. Whether through physical martyrdom or the challenges of missionary work, they teach us to remain faithful to Christ no matter the circumstances.
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3. Spiritual Themes and Reflections
Theme: Courage in Witnessing to the Faith and the Power of God's Healing
Today’s feast invites us to reflect on the courage required to witness to the faith in a hostile world. St. Blaise’s miraculous healing of the boy choking on a fishbone also reminds us of God’s power to heal both body and soul.
Key Quotes for Reflection:
• Matthew 16:24: “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”
• St. Ignatius of Antioch: “It is not that I want merely to be called a Christian, but to actually be one.”
• St. Blaise: “May Almighty God deliver you from every disease of the throat and from every other illness.” (Traditional Blessing)
Let us take courage from these words and strive to live as true witnesses of Christ.
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4. Conclusion and Prayer
As we close today's episode, let us turn to St. Blaise, asking for his intercession for our physical and spiritual health.
Prayer:
"Almighty and eternal God, You granted St. Blaise the grace to bear witness to Your faith even unto martyrdom and to perform miraculous healings in Your name. Through his intercession, protect us from all ailments of the throat and every other illness. Grant us the courage to carry our crosses and follow Your Son faithfully. Strengthen us in charity, obedience, and holiness so that we may one day rejoice with You in heaven. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen."
Thank you for joining me today. I pray that St. Blaise's example and intercession will inspire and protect you. As we carry our crosses with courage, may we always trust in God’s healing power. Join me next time for more Scripture, saints, and reflections from our beautiful Catholic tradition. Until then, may God bless you abundantly.