Today we celebrate a missionary whose burning love for Christ set the world ablaze with faith. The readings remind us that mission is born of divine calling and grace. God assures Jeremiah, “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you.” These words reveal that every vocation begins in God’s heart. St. Francis Xavier was chosen, strengthened, and sent; not by his own merit, but by God’s purpose. St. Paul reminds us that all gifts come from God: “What do you have that you did not receive?” This humility defined St. Francis Xavier’s life. He recognized that every talent, every opportunity, and every success was a gift to be used for the Gospel. His tireless zeal led him to distant lands, bringing countless souls to Christ through his faith, and courage. In the Gospel reading, Jesus commands, “Go into all the world and proclaim the good news.” St. Francis Xavier’s example urges us to be witnesses of faith wherever we are, trusting that God equips those he sends.

Prayer: Abba Father, increase my missionary zeal to proclaim your love. Amen.