In today’s Gospel (Luke 12:39–48), Jesus calls us to vigilance—to be faithful stewards who live every moment ready for the coming of the Lord. “Much will be required of the person entrusted with much,” He says. That same spirit of responsibility and readiness defined one of the greatest saints of our time: St. John Paul II.

Fr. Jason Lewis reminds us on the Feast of the Guardian Angels that each one of us has been given a personal heavenly companion from the moment of our birth until death (cf. Catechism 336). Jesus Himself teaches: “Unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven” (Mt 18:3). Why? Because children know their dependence. To be childlike before God is to recognize our total need for His grace.

Father Gabe Cillo, MIC, reflects on the witness of St. Marianne Cope, an immigrant and religious sister who did not hesitate when the call came to serve those suffering from leprosy on the island of Molokai, in Hawaii. While dozens of religious communities declined to send their members to serve, her community said yes. Saint Marianne went without fear, spending decades caring for the sick and dying, including St. Damien of Molokai in his final days.