In our lives, we look up to and idolize many people. They may be our parents, teachers, great men, outstanding athletes, etc. In the first reading, we see how Christians look up to and strengthen one another when they live their faith. Seeing a fellow Christian live an exemplary life – a life of humility, simplicity and holiness despite many trials and sufferings – can truly inspire us.
We should have the habit of inspiring each other by persevering in our love and service for the Lord. Our common goal is heaven and Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior and the Church is our Mother. We know that Jesus will come again anytime so we must encourage one another to live our faith with fervor and devotion.
St. Monica, the mother of St. Augustine, prayed for the conversion of her son and God granted her prayer. She was also a model of Christian virtue to others. In her advanced age, she told her son that nothing in this world matters anymore except for the time when she would be admitted into paradise. After such a conversation, five days later, she became seriously ill and died. Her holy wish was granted by the Lord.
St. Monica lived out the lesson our Lord gave us in the Gospel reading to be, like what is expected of a good servant, always ready for the coming of the master of the household: “Fortunate indeed is that servant whom his master will find at work when he comes. Truly, I say to you, his lord will entrust that one with everything he has.”