“You have been sanctified in Christ Jesus, and called to be holy.” (cf 1 Cor 1:2). St Paul’s words encourage us to live holy lives while awaiting the Lord’s return, trusting in God’s faithfulness.  Holiness means being set apart as God’s children, and it helps us to persevere: welcoming him in ordinary and difficult moments, and running the race steadily. Jesus warned, “The Son of Man will come at an hour you do not expect,” inviting us to readiness. Today, we celebrate the Memorial of St Monica, from whom we can draw inspiration on how holiness is lived out. For more than 30 years, she prayed for her wayward son Augustine, who later became the Bishop of Hippo and one of the Church’s greatest teachers. In her marriage as well, she bore insults and many challenges, yet through persistent love and faith, her pagan husband converted before his death. St Monica reminds us that holiness requires perseverance and trust, even when it feels impossible.

PRAYER: Abba Father, give us the grace to persevere, that we may strive to live in holiness. Amen.