Sainthood is Our Mission, not an Option

Nourishing Our Body and Soul

The Gospel for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Luke 14:25-33) reminds us of the radical call of discipleship. Jesus does not mince words: to follow Him means carrying our cross, letting go of anything that holds us back, and making Him our first love. It is not about comfort but commitment, not convenience but conviction.

Sainthood, therefore, is not reserved for the chosen few. It is not optional. It is the destiny and mission of every baptized Christian. To be holy is not just a suggestion but our vocation, our roadmap to heaven.

The Cost of Discipleship

In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus speaks of the cost of discipleship through two images: a builder planning to construct a tower and a king preparing for battle. Both remind us that following Christ requires deliberate choice, sacrifice, and perseverance. Holiness demands more than good intentions — it requires action, courage, and surrender.

Becoming a saint means giving up mediocrity. It means striving daily to live in the love of God and neighbor, no matter how small or great the challenges.

Modern Saints as Witnesses

We sometimes think holiness is unreachable, but the Church continually reminds us that sainthood is possible — even today.

• Blessed Carlo Acutis (1991–2006), known as the "Cyber Apostle of the Eucharist," used his talent in technology to spread devotion to the Eucharist. He lived a simple, joyful, and prayerful life, proving that holiness is possible even in the digital age.

• Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati (1901–1925), a young man passionate about sports and service to the poor, showed that sainthood can be lived in ordinary life with extraordinary love. His motto, “Verso l’alto” (Toward the heights), calls us to aim higher — toward heaven.

Both young men remind us that holiness is not about age, status, or occupation but about love — love of God and love of neighbor.

Acronym: S.A.I.N.T.

To live our mission of sainthood, let us remember:

• S – Sacrifice: Be willing to carry our cross and let go of selfishness.

• A – Adoration: Place God first through prayer, Eucharist, and devotion.

• I – Integrity: Live with honesty, purity, and faithfulness in all actions.

• N – Neighborly Love: Serve others, especially the poor and forgotten.

• T – Trust in God: Surrender your plans and future to His will.

When we live as SAINTs, we echo Christ’s call to true discipleship.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, You call us to follow You with courage and love. Teach us to embrace the cost of discipleship and to live with sacrifice, adoration, integrity, love for our neighbor, and trust in You. May the example of Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati inspire us to live with joy, faith, and passion for holiness. Guide us to always walk toward the heights of heaven. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

1. What are the “costs” of discipleship in my life today?

2. Which part of the acronym S.A.I.N.T. do I find most challenging to live out? Why?

3. How can I use my own talents, like Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, to bring others closer to Christ?

4. Do I see holiness as my mission, not just an option?

5. What concrete step can I take this week to live out my call to sainthood?