By Lucy Johnson

“…for you are but a youth” ~ 1 Samuel 17:33

Have you ever had a “David and Goliath” day, wondering how you can persevere? We may feel inadequate or others may lack faith in our ability to accomplish the task at hand. When those moments happen, we can look to two heroes: David and Agnes.

Overcoming the odds

In today’s first reading, even Saul didn’t think David would defeat Goliath as David was only a youth. David couldn’t use armor because it was too heavy. How did he ever wield Goliath’s sword to finish the job? David trusted in God.

The saint whose feast day we celebrate was also only a youth who showed great courage. Although Saint Agnes did not fight a Philistine, she had her own battles. Like David, she trusted in God and her courage was firmly based on her faith.

When we have one of those days where we think we are inadequate or only a _____, look for inspiration from these saints.

Honoring Saint Agnes

Saint Agnes lived in Rome in the early 300s. As a committed follower of Jesus, she was martyred as a teenager. St. Agnes continues to inspire and encourage others. Her name is listed in the Eucharistic Prayers.

Every year on her feast day, two lambs are blessed at the Basilica of Saint Agnes Outside the Walls in Rome. The wool from these lambs is used to make the pallium, or white vestment, given to a newly appointed archbishop by the Pope. Saint Agnes is often depicted with a lamb.

On a personal note, my mother was 41 when I was born. Because of her age, she named me after two “good” saints: Lucy and Agnes. Growing up, neither name was popular. I thought Agnes was an “old lady” name. Once I learned Agnes’ story and visited her church in Rome, I realized how wise my mother was, and how lucky I was to be named Lucy Agnes.

 

Prayer:

Dear God, when the feelings of inadequacy overcome me, remind me that You are always there for me. Give me courage and strengthen my faith. Help me remember that there is nothing that You and I can’t handle together.

Call to Action:

Take time today to read about a saint. They have much to teach us.

 

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