be a titus
"Titus, my own true child..." —Titus 1:4
St. Titus the apostle is seen in the New Testament as one who brings peace and unity. Titus accompanied Paul to Jerusalem (Gal 2:1) when Paul had a council with the Jewish apostles for the purpose of submitting his preaching content "for their scrutiny" (Gal 2:2). Paul was the apostle to the Gentiles, and Titus, one of Paul's Gentile converts to Christianity, was living proof of the fruit of Paul's ministry (Gal 2:3). Titus' living faith was a witness to the Jerusalem apostles, who stood united with Paul, approved him, and re-commissioned him to "go to the Gentiles" (Gal 2:9).
Paul wrote a severe letter of correction to the young Christians at Corinth. Because this was an explosive situation, Paul chose Titus, the man of peace and unity, to deliver this letter in person to Corinth. After Titus departed, Paul grew anxious for news of the impact of his letter. Paul couldn't minister to the people of Troas, despite an "open door" to preach there, because Titus hadn't returned yet with news (2 Cor 2:12-13). Paul was "low in spirit," but God gave him "strength with the arrival of Titus" (2 Cor 7:6). Titus found joy in the repentance of the Corinthians (2 Cor 7:13) and gave Paul joy by his unifying ministry in Corinth. Titus' heart embraced the Corinthians with an expanding love (2 Cor 7:15). No wonder Paul sent Titus to make peace. Blessed are the peacemakers (Mt 5:9).
Prayer: Father, make me an instrument of Your peace.
Promise: "With the strength which comes from God bear your share of the hardship which the gospel entails." —2 Tm 1:8
Praise: "Thanks be to God, Who has put an equal zeal for you in the heart of Titus!" (2 Cor 8:16)
Reference: (Founded by Father Lauer, our Discipleship Retreats are an opportunity for people to receive healing and be formed as disciples of Jesus through their study of the Bible and the teachings of the Church. Visit presentationministries.com for information.)
(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 26, 2015
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