Deacon Robin Waters reflects on the words of Jesus, “Much will be required of the person entrusted with much.” He draws from the life of St. John Paul II, who—despite deep personal suffering—surrendered himself to God and boldly proclaimed, “Do not be afraid! Open wide the doors to Christ!” We are called to continual discernment, to be “weapons of righteousness,” and to live as visible signs of Christ in a world that often prefers comfort to commitment.
St. Teresa of Avila shows us that even the greatest saints struggled in prayer and faith. Her life reminds us that holiness is not about perfection but perseverance—returning to God again and again in love, no matter how distracted, doubtful, or weak we feel. In silence and surrender, we encounter the God who is always with us, always patient, and always enough.
In this homily honoring St. Thérèse of Lisieux, we’re reminded that holiness isn’t found in great achievements but in great love. The “Little Flower” shows us that the path to sanctity begins in small, daily acts of surrender. As we follow the Little Way, we learn that excuses and attachments fade when our hearts are rooted in Jesus alone, who gives our lives meaning beyond all earthly things.
This week’s homily challenges us to reflect on what it truly means to be “poor.” Scripture presents poverty in two ways: material poverty, seen in those who struggle for basic needs, and spiritual poverty, revealed in Christ’s humility. Though Jesus was rich, He became poor for our sake, emptying Himself to give us eternal riches in heaven. To know Him personally—not just know about Him—is the greatest treasure.