St. Philip asked Jesus a question to which Jesus clearly expected Philip to already know the answer. Unfortunately, I can relate all too well to St. Philip, and perhaps some of you can relate as well. Often I must hear information several times before it finally sinks into my mind. Thankfully, Philip was not too proud to offer Jesus his ignorance and lack of understanding. Philip allowed Jesus to take it away and replace it with the Holy Spirit's gifts of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. The Lord transformed Philip into a powerful apostle, who preached in the area which is now Turkey, and was martyred for his unswerving faith in Jesus.

Jesus can use anything we offer to Him for His use. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence rely not" (Prv 3:5). Do you feel you are too tired, too ignorant, too weak, too sinful to be of any use to Jesus? Offer your all to Him, no matter whether you consider it good or bad. Jesus is able to transform anything; nothing is impossible for Him (Lk 1:37).

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, November 28, 2018

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