Friday of the Twenty-ninth Week in Ordinary Time
Or Optional Memorial of Saint Anthony Mary Claret, Bishop
Luke 12: 54-59
Discernment Guides Your Life

In today’s Gospel, Jesus invites us to learn from the signs of the times. The people of Palestine knew how to read the sky—clouds meant rain, winds from the south meant heat. But while they could read the weather, they failed to read the most important sign: that the Kingdom of God was already in their midst.

Discernment is a gift. It is not about rushing into decisions but learning to pause, to pray, and to seek the Holy Spirit’s light. Discernment helps us distinguish between what is urgent and what is essential, between what comes from God and what does not. Jesus warns us that life is too short to postpone reconciliation, too serious to ignore God’s call. “Settle matters quickly,” He says—not only with others but above all with God.

St Anthony Mary Claret lived this Gospel with intensity. A missionary bishop and founder, he carried a burning zeal for souls. His life was one long act of discernment, asking each day: “Lord, what do you want of me today?” He read the signs of his own times—poverty, injustice, ignorance of the faith—and responded with courage. He preached tirelessly, wrote books and pamphlets, founded religious institutes, and defended the dignity of the poor. He knew that every moment was urgent when it came to bringing Christ to others.

From him we learn three lessons. First, before deciding, pray. Let God’s Spirit guide your choices. Second, judge fairly—be honest with yourself and merciful with others. Third, settle what needs to be settled—don’t postpone reconciliation, forgiveness, or the conversion of your heart.

Jesus reminds us that time is short, and St Anthony Claret shows us how to use it well: discerning, acting, and living for God with passion. May his example inspire us to read the signs of our times, to embrace the urgency of the Gospel, and to make our peace with God while there is still time.

Apostolic Prayer of St. Anthony Mary Claret
O my God and Father, Grant that I may know You and make You known, that I love You and bring others to love You, that I serve You and inspire others to serve You, that I praise You and work that all Your creatures praise You. Grant, my Father, that all sinners be converted, that all the just persevere in grace, and that all of us reach eternal glory. Amen.

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Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025