Today, the Church celebrates the Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales (21 August 1567 - 28 December 1622). Known for his deep faith and his gentle approach to dealing with the religious divisions of his day as a result of the Protestant Reformation, this Bishop of Geneva (Switzerland) is also known for his writings on the subjects of spiritual direction and spiritual formation.
Today's gospel passage (Mk 3:13-19) points to a moment in Jesus' life when he too had to seek direction and inspiration in prayer before appointing twelve of his disciples whom he also named apostles (those who are sent) (cf Mk 3:14). Any of us who are called upon from time to time to make decisions can understand that this must not have been an easy task for Jesus to accomplish. Rather, he had to pray, to seek heavenly wisdom and to allow himself to be inspired by it in order to make informed and wise decisions about who he would call and send.
This truth still holds for us today. Like Jesus, we too need to pray for heavenly guidance, especially when we are faced with important decisions. Perhaps in such situations, we can also call upon Saint Francis de Sales, asking him to inspire us with the gifts of direction and formation so that we too can be wise in carrying out the tasks that the Lord asks us to accept.
Have a great day.
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