Episode 2660: The Courage of the Saints - Nightly Episode

“O my God, at the end of this day I thank You most heartily for all the graces I have received from You. I am sorry that I have not made better use of them. I am sorry for all the sins I have committed against You. Forgive me, O my God, and graciously protect me this night. Blessed Virgin Mary, my dear heavenly mother, take me under your protection. St. Joseph, my dear Guardian Angel, and all you saints of God, pray for me. Sweet Jesus, have pity on all poor sinners, and save them from hell. Have mercy on the suffering souls in purgatory. Amen.”
The Courage of the Saints
Tonight we delve into the lives of two extraordinary saints, St. Martin de Porres and St. Thomas Becket, whose lives exemplify the virtues of patience and courage.
St. Martin de Porres, a humble Dominican lay brother, lived a life marked by service to the poor and sick. He once said, "Do not complain, that shows discontent with the will of God in the present moment. That is also proof of impatience."
Martin's words are a powerful reminder of the importance of patience. In a world that often demands instant gratification, it can be difficult to wait on God's timing. However, as Martin knew, true peace and joy come from trusting in God's plan.
St. Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, was a courageous defender of the Church. Fr. John S. Hogan wrote, "Thomas of Canterbury, then and now, is the foe of tyranny. He is also the thorn in the side of those shepherds in the Church who, for various reasons, conform to tyranny, or at least try to placate it. In his lifetime, he admonished his brother bishops for their cowardice, and he continues to do so today. This is part of his legacy to the Church: He urges pastors to stand firm, even if it means they may lose their possessions, their places of honor, their reputation among the establishment; even if it means they must lose their lives. Thomas lost everything, even his life, and in return he gained everything. This was why the ordinary faithful could trust him -- in the end, Thomas of Canterbury was not a man for himself. He was a man for others."
Thomas Becket's unwavering commitment to truth and justice led him to martyrdom. His example inspires us to stand firm in our faith, even in the face of adversity.

The Call to Holiness
Both St. Martin de Porres and St. Thomas Becket lived lives of extraordinary holiness. They were men who sought to follow Christ's example, even when it meant suffering. Their lives challenge us to examine our own lives and to ask ourselves if we are truly living up to our baptismal promises.
Conclusion
As we conclude this episode, let us reflect on the lives of these two saints. May we be inspired by their patience, courage, and unwavering faith. Let us strive to live each day with greater love for God and neighbor, trusting in His divine providence.
Conclusion Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Help us to follow Your example, to be patient in adversity and courageous in the face of temptation. Grant us the grace to live each day with a focus on Your love, trusting in Your divine plan. Amen.