Monday 13 June

St Anthony of Padua

1 Kings 21:1-16; Psalm 5: 2-3ab, 4b-6, 7: Matthew 5:38-42

Led along unexpected paths

Anthony’s life as a Franciscan friar was full of unexpected twists and turns. Anthony caught this note of unexpectedness well when once preaching about the saints: “The saints are like the stars. In his providence Christ conceals them in a hidden place that they may not shine before others when they might wish to do so. Yet they are always ready to exchange the quiet of contemplation for the works of mercy as soon as they perceive in their heart the invitation of Christ.” When the unexpected confronts us are we supple enough in spirit to go where God’s Spirit may be leading us?