Today’s readings connect the truth of Christ to the visible life of love. Cyprian continues Epistle 72 by arguing that baptism cannot be separated from the true confession of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and that even the language of Christ’s name must not be used against the truth Christ Himself revealed. Augustine then explains why he confesses not only what he was, but what he now is, speaking before fellow pilgrims who share his joy, his mortality, and his need for grace. Aquinas closes by describing beneficence as charity in action: love does not remain only in affection, but moves outward to do good according to need, duty, and opportunity. Together, these readings remind us that truth must be confessed, weakness must be honestly brought before God and the Church, and charity must become visible in works of love.

Today’s ...