Saint André Bessette joined the Congregation of Holy Cross during his twenties. He was given the task of opening and welcoming people at the door to the Notre Dame College in Montreal. Although not a celebrated responsibility, André accepted the job with great faith and humility. Through this surrender, the Lord was able to transform his role into a great one, by having him pray over and heal thousands of people who came to visit. Word of these miracles spread like wildfire, causing Saint André to become famously known as the “Miracle Man of Montreal.”

Through this fame he remained humble. He once said, “I am nothing…only a tool in the hands of Providence, a lowly instrument at the service of Saint Joseph.” His life and humble response teach us that profound things can happen if we allow the Lord to work through us, as long as we don’t lose sight of who is actually doing the work.

In the Gospel reading for today, we are reminded that the fame of Jesus spread to all of Syria for the miraculous healings that occurred through Him. However, He never prioritized this fame over his mission in loving and saving us.

Let us use today to ask the Lord for humble confidence as His sons and daughters, so that we too may bring Christ to the people we encounter. And whatever we say and do, may we give the rightful credit to the one who loves us most.

Have I allowed the Lord to work through me lately? If so, have I used my work or successes to glorify God or myself?

Jesus, thanks for reminding us that all good things come from you and that you deserve all the glory. St. André Bessette, please pray for our own humility as we strive to grow in holiness and to build God’s Kingdom. Amen.