The Parish of St. Bernard in Madison shared their pastor’s note from the church's Aug. 9 bulletin.

The Rev. Michael Radowicz explained that God can bless the things that we do and make them far more impactful than we ever could have on our own.

“St. John Vianney and Blessed Solanus Casey (we celebrated his memorial the week before) have many things in common," Fr. Radowicz said in the note. "(1) Neither of them were academically gifted. They both struggled in their studies and weren’t the most academically astute. ... (2) Neither of them did anything extraordinary in their ministry. They did ordinary things, but with great zeal and care. It was God’s grace that made what they did extraordinary!”

Neither of these men did amazing things that would attract the attention of most people. Both lived simple lives, but they were revered as wise men of God. 

In this fast-paced and competitive world in which we live, it can be easy for us to seek recognition for our actions and talk up our own experiences. While the world is trying to tell us to seek attention, we will gain the right attention when we serve God. When we labor for Him, we bring glory to his name.

“Great things happen when we offer all we do and are to the Lord,” Radowicz said.

Radowicz concluded by speaking of the explosion in Beirut and the violent crimes committed against a Catholic church in Massachusetts.

“A statue of our Blessed Mother was doused with fuel and set on fire," Radowicz said. "I think we’re all reeling from the extreme violence that has rocked our own city, our region, the country and the entire world."

While it is a difficult time to live in, we are told that we must endure even in the more challenging of days.

“For those without faith, these days can quickly lead to a complete deflation of hope and a heavy dose of despair,” Radowicz said. “Allow the Lord to be your portion and cup in these difficult days. He is our joy; He is our peace!”