The Memorial of St. Antony the Abbot (AKA St. Anthony of the Desert), and the reading from the first Book of Samuel, in which David defeats the giant Goliath with a sling and five smooth stones (1 Sam 17: 32-51) come together on this day to remind us that God's plan for each of us is usually far different from the ones we make. God chooses the most unsuspecting people to do his work, as a reminder, it seems, that HE is really the power behind all of us and gives us the power and support to do things of which we never dreamed we could accomplish.
Antony inherited a fortune and a large farm...was set for life...but heard the Gospel to give all to the poor and follow Jesus...Not in his game plan until he heard God Calling; Antony laid the foundation of Christian monasticism.
David, the youngest of Jesse's sons, a shepherd far out in the fields away from his father and brothers, is yanked from his halcyon existence to find himself anointed at the hands of Samuel as the king of Israel. His first job, far beyond that of herding sheep, is to face and "dispatch" the giant Philistine and rout his army. From his offspring came Jesus, the Son of God and Savior of the world.
Can't resist adding that St. Marcellin, not unlike David, was a shepherd, a farmhand, and unschooled, yet called to a work far beyond his imagination and perceived capabilities, to found a religious congregation of teaching brothers. 3,500 brothers strong,wbo conduct schools in 80 countries.
Our mouths drop in wonder that these unlike-lies should have such an impact on the world. Yet, this is God's way, his ever perplexing plan. What fears of excuses can withstand the compelling plan of God? What is God calling me to do today?
Bro. Rene
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