Homily for the Memorial of St. Francis de Sales

What may initially seem like an insignificant line in today’s Gospel actually deserves our attention. It follows Jesus summoning those He chose, stating, "And they came to Him."

Jesus called the Twelve He wanted to be His Apostles, and they came to Him.

Every day, Jesus calls us; He is constantly reaching out to us. Do we respond when He calls? Are we even aware of when and how He calls us?

In Matthew's Gospel, Jesus tells us that He calls us through those who need help with basic necessities, such as food, water, clothing, and shelter. He is present in those who are sick and require our compassion and care, as well as in those who are imprisoned, especially those who suffer due to oppression.

Do we recognize Jesus in these individuals? Do we hear His call through them? Do we reach out to Him through our service to these people? We should because Jesus made it clear on many occasions that it is through people like these that He can be found and served.