Today, we celebrate the memorial of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, born around 287 in Alexandria, Egypt. Catherine is the patroness of students, teachers, librarians and lawyers. She is venerated especially in Germany and Hungary.
Catherine became a Christian after a vision of Mary and the infant Jesus she had around the age of fourteen. The pursuit of God’s wisdom may not lead to riches or earthly honors. In Catherine’s case, this pursuit contributed to her martyrdom. When Christians were persecuted when Maxentius was the emperor, Catherine visited him to denounce his cruelty. Rather than order her execution, the emperor summoned 50 orators and philosophers to debate her. However, Catherine was moved by the power of the Holy Spirit and spoke eloquently in defense of her faith. Her words were so powerful that several of the pagans converted to Christianity and were immediately executed.
Catherine offered herself to God as a sacrifice. We know that no one can outdo God in generosity. God rewards every good deed.
In the gospel we read about the generosity of a poor widow who offers her last penny for the upkeep of the Temple. Jesus asserts that by giving what she could not afford, what she gave was worth more than the richest donation.
We all know this saying: “give until it hurts.” Catherine and the poor widow gave God all.
Do I give in poverty or do I give out of abundance?
The central gospel message is not that the Lord disliked or was biased against those who were rich and powerful, this is far from the truth, Jesus is telling us that even if we are facing hardships and challenges in our own lives, it does not mean that we cannot give from even our sufferings and poverty, time, talent and treasure.
Jesus later in the gospel passage would give himself totally on the cross for us. There is no greater love than to lay down your life for your friends. We are called to be generous with ourselves and to others.
As we enter the season of giving, let us be mindful of Jesus message in the gospel.
Have a wonderful week
