Today, the Church celebrates the third-century deacon named Vincent, otherwise known as Vincent of Saragossa. He was born at Huesca, near Saragossa, Spain and spent most of his life in the city of Saragossa, where he was educated and ordained to the diaconate by Bishop Valerius of Saragossa. The Bishop commissioned Vincent to preach throughout the diocese, and because he (the Bishop) himself suffered from a speech impediment, Vincent acted as his spokesman.
During the persecution of Christians which was carried out by the Roman Emperor Diocletian, Vincent and his Bishop were both imprisoned. Both continued to profess their faith, even when to do so meant that they would be severely punished. In the case of Vincent, such a decision led to his ultimate martyrdom, but his example of care for his brother provides us with a living example of the words spoken in the gospel today: when Jesus entered the synagogue, there was a man there who had a withered hand (Mk 3:1). Despite the discouraging words offered by the leaders of the time, Jesus healed the man, a sign of his concern for his brother.
Concern for those who are our brothers and sisters in Christ can sometimes challenge us to make some difficult decisions, but in the end, to do so is to act according to the example of Jesus himself. May Saint Vincent of Saragossa intercede for us today and help us to always place the needs of others ahead of our own perceived desires.
Have a great day.
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