Daily Reflection Memorial of Saint Ambrose, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

Today we celebrate the Memorial of St. Ambrose, Bishop and Doctor of the Church. Born in 339 AD. He became the Governor of the Roman district around Milan and found himself acclaimed by a crowd as the new bishop of the archdiocese. The only problem was that he was not yet baptized! He tried to avoid being made bishop, but neither the emperor nor the people would hear of it. He was subsequently baptized, ordained a priest, and then immediately consecrated as bishop.

Once in office, he exemplified that kind of faith that today’s Gospel talks about. As is sometimes said, he not only talked the talk but walked the walk. He adopted an ascetic lifestyle, gave his money to the poor, including donating all his land. He did his utmost to fulfill “the will of the Father” and witnessed to the Reign of God, not only in his preaching but also by his holy life.

May his generosity of spirit inspire us all.