Thursday, August 29 : Lanspergius the Carthusian

John did not live for himself alone, nor did he die for himself alone. How many there were, burdened with sin, who were led to conversion by his hard and austere life. How many who were strengthened to bear their own trials by his undeserved death. And what about us? From where does the opportunity come to offer faithful thanks to God today if not from the the remembrance of Saint John, put to death for righteousness’ sake, that is to say, for Christ?… Yes indeed, John the Baptist sacrificed his life with all his heart here below for love of Christ. He chose to despise the commands of a tyrant rather than those of God. His example teaches us that nothing should be dearer to us than the will of God. Pleasing other people is of little value, indeed, it often causes great harm… Therefore let us die to our sins and anxieties with all God’s friends, tread underfoot our misguided self-will and be careful to allow fervent love for Christ to grow within us.

Roman Extraordinary (Tridentine) Daily Readings – rosary,team