Saint Martin of Tours, Bishop (Memorial)
Romans 16:3-9, 16, 22-27
Greet Prisca and Aquila, . . . Andronicus and Junia. (Romans 16:3, 7)
This list of greetings at the end of Paul’s Letter to the Romans is arguably as important as any of the theology and moral teachings that make up the previous fifteen chapters. Paul knew that the Christian life becomes real in relationships, not just in ideas and doctrines. He knew that the Church is not just an institution but a network of people drawn together by the Spirit. It is made up of families and individuals and friends who experience God’s love and forgiveness together.
In this long list of names, we hear Paul the brother more than Paul the preacher. We hear a pastor conveying heartfelt affection for his companions in the faith. Behind these names are countless stories of shared meals, late-night conversations, laughter, tears, celebrations, and common hardships. Each name represents a unique story of someone who has met the risen Christ and has been baptized into his new life.
Look at your own history. Certainly there are people whose witness has shaped your faith. There are those who have introduced you to Jesus and those who have modeled the Christian life for you. The Holy Spirit has been working through these men and women, guiding and encouraging you throughout the years. This is the same Spirit who worked in Paul and the other apostles, the same Spirit who has filled the hearts of Christians around the world in every age, creating one vast communion of saints. It’s amazing to consider that you are connected to the very people Paul mentioned two thousand years ago!
Today is a good day to praise the Lord for those who have shaped your life and opened your heart to Jesus. Praise him for those ancestors who have passed down the gift of faith and for those in your church community who have prayed for you and with you. Let your gratitude pour forth for all of them—members of the family of faith!
“Jesus, thank you for the brothers and sisters who journey with me on the way of discipleship.”