The Gospels report that large crowds gathered to listen to Jesus wherever he went. Some of those who listened followed him because in Jesus they found someone who cared about them - someone who cared deeply. He cared about them with the love and compassion that flowed from God's heart. Holy people reflect for us the love and compassion that Jesus revealed.

While so few people are recognized for their outstanding holiness even during their own lifetimes, there are many more who never attain recognition, yet live lives of great holiness. Think about the holy people you know personally and admire. How do they radiate the goodness and compassion of Christ? They may in extraordinary situations respond with amazing generosity of spirit. Yet more often we see the goodness of God shining through them in simple, every-day actions. We see it in the way they make time even for those people who annoy them. We see it in the kindness by which they deflect cutting words. We see it in the way that they soothe anger with sympathetic understanding. We see it in the strength with which they stand up for someone wronged. We see it in the cheerfulness with which they accept themselves and their own shortcomings, and the earnestness with which they thank God for life's gifts.

Family Activity

Think of a holy person that everyone in your family knows. Talk about what makes that person seem holy to family members. Then plan a way to show that person that you think he or she is special. It could be preparing some cookies; designing a special greeting card; or offering to help with something you know the person could use help with, such as cutting their grass or pulling weeds. As you are planning this, point out how good it feels to acknowledge someone and how good it feels to be acknowledged.

See the Liturgical Calendar on this site for additional information.
See also Catechist—Lent or Teacher—Lent for Liturgy.