Feast of Saint Nicholas of Tolentino

Good morning. Disease and illness can rapidly take its toll. Spiritual illness can likewise ravish our souls. In today’s Gospel Jesus cures a man’s physical infirmity. He likewise reaches out to the scribes and Pharisees, attempting to bring to their attention their spiritual disease. He takes note of how they are constantly looking to find fault with those around them. Instead of looking for the good in others they are always on the prowl for what others are doing wrong. Jesus is suggesting that we focus more on people’s goodness, to focus more on what is right with others versus looking to find fault. We too are called to do likewise, to reach-out and to love completely and without reservation. Jesus offers us a way to find a boundless sense of joy and happiness through looking to the good in one another. It seems simple enough; simply love as He loves us—looking for the good in others. We should always try to look for the good in others and help each other eliminate the troubled areas of each other’s lives. Our saint for today, Saint Nicholas of Tolentino, was known for his reaching out to others in love and curing others of their illness. We too can do the same. Through reaching out to others and noting their goodness, we too can cure others of their spiritual and emotional illnesses. What’s the challenge in finding fault? We are all sinners. Each of us is the handiwork of our Creator, and God doesn’t make junk. Can we meet this challenge? Our goodness brings out the goodness in others. Can we look for the good in others today? Can we look for the good in our spouse today? Let me know what you think. Treat your partner as a new chapter for you to explore each day and let your partner know the good things you discover. Make a great day!

Today we recall the good life, gifts, and work of Saint Nicholas of Tolentino.