Thought for the Day – 19 September – The Memorial of St Januarius
Jesus said that we would know a tree by its fruits. When it comes to miraculous stories like the one of Januarius’ blood, it’s best to look at the lives of the faithful. Does this strange phenomenon bring people to deeper conversion? Are they more in love with Jesus and his Church because of it? After viewing the ancient bubbling blood, are the witnesses more charitable, just, prudent, chaste, kind and merciful? Are those witnesses inspired to become witnesses – literally, martyrs – themselves?
For over 400 years folks have found a deeper faith in Christ and His Church because of the blood of Januarius. Some have even turned to Jesus for the first time because of it. Repentance, conversion and discipleship are, no doubt, good fruits.
Tertullian said, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” Sometimes, that blood is bubbling.
St Januarius, Pray for us!
AnaStpaul 