Optional Memorial of St. Peter Damian, Bishop and Doctor of the Church
“For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine
but, following their own desires and insatiable curiosity,
will accumulate teachers and will stop listening to the truth….”
(2 Timothy 4:3,4)
Drawing on the readings for today’s optional memorial of St. Peter Damian, Bishop and Doctor of the Church, the above verse from the first reading stood out to me. At this time when there seems to be much disregard for the truth, this letter to Timothy might well speak to us today: “proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.” (vs 2)
The gospel reading from John (15:1-8) gives us further guidance, reminding us that we must remain connected to Jesus, the “true vine” in order to bear fruit. We know that a branch cannot bear fruit on its own if it's not attached to the tree or, in this case, the vine. Jesus is telling his disciples (including us), “I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him (or her) will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing.” Our efforts are in vain if we are not connected to Jesus, the true vine! I repeat Jesus’ words from John, “without me you can do nothing.”
So let us stay connected to the True Vine in our seeking and proclaiming the truth. Returning once more to Paul’s letter to Timothy for encouragement, “But you, be self-possessed in all circumstances; put up with hardship; perform the work of an evangelist; fulfill your ministry.” (vs 5)
How are we called to speak and live the truth in our world, in our country, in our communities today? St. Damian, pray for us. Amen.
—Eileen Miller