Saint John of God

In this season of Lent, we seek for ways to increase our intimacy with God and our concern for others. We may look to today’s saint for inspiration in this. After a career in the military, John of God (1495 – 1550) regretted his past and committed his life to God’s service. At first, out of a sense of contrition, he submitted himself to harsh penances. Gradually, though, John learned that God preferred compassion for others more than penitential practices. From that time on, John devoted himself to the poor, particularly those in need of health care. We, too, can find intimacy with God through our compassion for others.