THE PRESENTATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (MEMORIAL)

I will leave to the young a noble example.

Eleazar was one of the leading teachers of the Law of Moses during a time of intense persecution of the Jewish people. A distinguished older man, he was revered by his fellow Jews, especially the younger generations, for his wisdom and devotion to the Lord. Eleazar was also shrewd. He knew that his words and actions had an outsized effect on the young people who were also suffering persecution.

When the pagan occupiers of Jerusalem arrested Eleazar, they gave him two choices: either publicly eat pork, in disobedience to the Law, or face torture and execution. His captors even proposed that he just pretend to eat the pork—as long as everyone else thought he had given in. But Eleazar chose death. He knew how many young people looked up to him, and he didn’t want to spare his life if it meant leading them astray.

Now, this is a very dramatic and extreme example of the influence one person’s life can have. But don’t dismiss it because of the drama! You can make a difference in people’s lives!

Just think of the people whose witness has affected you. Not just your parents or your pastor, but everyday parishioners or friends. Think of the stories of the saints and their enduring legacy for generations of believers. People notice your life just as much. They see your patience. They see your kindness and generosity. They see your faithfulness to your family and friends. They see how you handle disappointments, grief, and suffering. Every time you choose the way of Christ over the way of the world—even if it’s quiet or subtle or unstated—your life becomes a testimony to the love of God.

When it comes to spiritual matters, we humans have a way of underestimating the effect we can have. It’s easy to forget that the Holy Spirit is at work in us—and in the people around us. It’s easy to forget his ability to take our actions, fill them with his grace and power, and use them to reveal himself. Your decisions matter because you matter!

“Thank you, Lord, for using me as a vessel of your grace!”

2 Maccabees 6:18-31
Psalm 3:2-7
Luke 19:1-10