Scripture scholars believe that St Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy in order to encourage Timothy and motivate him in his ministry to the people of Ephesus. We might wonder why Paul includes these wise words about Scripture in this letter, because surely Paul had spoken to Timothy about Sacred Scripture previously. Perhaps it is because when we get bogged down with the busy details of our daily lives, when we're stressed out about things and when we try to live out the Gospel in the midst of so much that is going on, we can lose sight of what is central. Perhaps these words about Scripture are a reminder for us today, to see the truth in God’s word and not to try to twist it into our desires and whims. It is easy to manipulate God’s word, but we go back to the Word of God again and again for it to instruct us and correct us and guide us.
Today, we commemorate the feast day of St Boniface, who was an English Benedictine monk and priest who evangelized the Germanic people of Europe in the 8th century, a period of European history known as the dark ages, a period of cultural and intellectual decline in Europe. St Boniface missionary work is often likened to that of St Paul, of his work in proclaiming the Gospel to the Gentiles in the ancient world. It was Pope Gregory II who sent Boniface to continental Europe as a missionary. Like Paul, Boniface dedicated himself 100% to spreading the Gospel amongst people who often practiced idol worship.
Like Paul, Boniface’s charismatic personality and spiritual gifts attracted people to Jesus’ way of living out the Gospel message. Boniface did in the year 754 when a group of pagans struck him down while he was in the process of confirming into the Church some newly baptized members.Today, Boniface is recognized as the patron saint of Germany. He is an inspiration and example to many in the faith.
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