Homily for January 4, 2020

At the beginning of the twentieth century, an Italian boy heard God's call. He was an unlikely choice because his father was quite anti-Catholic. A member of the Italian Socialist Party, he constantly mocked the Church. His son, Albino, heard a Franciscan preacher and felt called to the priesthood. Albino's dad was working in another city so, with great trepidation, he wrote him a letter. It took some time for the response. Trembling, Albino opened the letter. It contained a small piece of paper, on which his father wrote, "If that is what you wish, do it." 

Eventually, his dad was reconciled with the Church. Albino kept the note all his life - and he still had it in 1978, when as Patriarch of Venice, he was called to serve the Church in a new way. He became known as "The Smiling Pope," Pope John Paul I. His papacy lasted only thirty-three days, but it made a deep impression. Today Albino Luciani — the late Pope John Paul I — is on the path to beatification and sainthood. 

God chooses not only famous people; He chooses people like you and me. And what appears to be a humble role might be a hinge on His plan of redemption. In God's production, we do not know who the leading actors are, but we will find out on the final Judgment Day. What we do know is that God chooses us with care for our role in His plan. Like a great director, selecting exactly the right person for a part, God chooses you and me. 

Today Jesus asks, "What are you looking for?" Do not be afraid to tell Him. And you may hear those beautiful words, "Come, and you will see." +