Homily for the Memorial of Saint Gregory the Great

The first part of today's Gospel offers important insights. Jesus learns that Simon Peter's mother-in-law is seriously ill with a high fever. This event has been recounted numerous times, and Luke summarizes it as follows: First, Peter's mother-in-law becomes gravely ill. Second, friends ask Jesus to help her. Third, He commands the fever to leave her. Finally, she gets up and begins to serve them, likely offering food.

After her miraculous recovery, the woman immediately gets up and waits on them. This act of service within a caring community enriches the family environment. The people around Jesus interceded on her behalf in a beautiful display of unity. Their actions convey a sense of belonging and togetherness that is truly heartwarming.

In his letter to the Colossians, St. Puls commends the people for having a similar attitude to the people we encounter in our Gospel story. He speaks about their faith and love, and their hope for heaven.

We, too, are called to care for one another in Jesus' name and to be of service to those in need. Our love and concern for others, even those outside our families and faith community, must be real and evident, marking us as followers of Christ and encouraging others to become the same.