Aug 21 – Memorial for St. Pius X, pope
St. Pius X (1835-1914) encouraged frequent Holy Communion. He reformed the liturgy, promoted clear and simple homilies, and brought Gregorian chant back to services. He also reorganised the Roman curia, the administrative elements of the Church, and worked against the modern antagonism of the state against the Church. His other contributions to the Church included: initiating the codification of canon law, promoting Bible reading by all the faithful, and supporting foreign missions. His will read: “I was born poor; I lived poor; I wish to die poor.”
- Patron Saint Index
Eze 34:1-11
Mt 20:1-16
Shepherds ought to feed their flock…
As I closely follow the U.S. 2024 elections through countless hours of online coverage, I find myself swept up in a whirlwind of emotions—shocked by the unexpected, outraged by injustices, and at times, utterly exasperated. Yet, amidst the turmoil, I also sense glimmers of hope, anticipation, and a deep yearning for change. Watching from afar, I can only imagine the emotional burden Americans must carry as they consider the choices they’ll make in November.
“Every country has the government it deserves,” said Joseph de Maistre (1752–1821). While this statement may not have been directed at democratic elections, it resonates powerfully in nations where people have the power to choose their leaders. In such places, the public, as a collective, is responsible for the government they end up with, since they’re the ones who put those leaders in power. Ultimately, the government reflects the choices of the people. It is the responsibility and duty of every citizen not only to actively participate in selecting the right individuals to assume leadership roles but also to pray for the right people to take on these positions.
In any election, in any nation, the responsibility lies with each voter and the choice they make for the next leader. The key question we must ask ourselves is whether we vote based on personal gain or prioritize the collective well-being of our country and its people.
We don’t have to govern a country to be leaders. Many of us are leaders in our organizations, communities, and homes.
What are the qualities of a good leader?
According to Harvard Business School professor Linda Hill, these traits include authenticity, curiosity, analytical prowess, adaptability, creativity, comfort with ambiguity, resilience, and empathy.
And what makes a good Christian leader? The qualities are integrity, compassion, humility, forgiveness, love, faith, leading by example, servant leadership, and empathy.
Two qualities stand out for me:
Empathy – This is the ability to connect with others on an emotional level. As leaders, we must cultivate relationships, build trust, and engage actively with our team. We must be able to step into the shoes of others, understand what matters to them, recognize their priorities, and find common ground. By enhancing our emotional intelligence, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complex challenges others face, allowing us to create a more supportive and nurturing environment.
Servant Leadership – This quality is exemplified by Jesus, who, despite being a leader, also served others (Mark 10:45). He demonstrated this by washing the feet of his followers and attending to their needs (John 13:1). A true Christian leader should embrace the humble principles of servant leadership, which involves honouring those around you and prioritizing their well-being over personal ambitions (Philippians 2:3).
In today’s first reading, the question is posed: Shouldn’t shepherds, instead, pasture their sheep?
To shepherds and leaders who have been pasturing themselves—focusing on their own interests rather than the well-being of those they were meant to serve— You did not strengthen the weak nor heal the sick nor bind up the injured. You did not bring back the strayed nor seek the lost, but you lorded it over them harshly and brutally.
No matter what positions we hold, whether we lead in our organisations, teams, or communities, or whether we are parents guiding our children, we must look after and tend to the flock entrusted to us.
The leaders had been pasturing themselves, focusing on their own interests rather than the well-being of those they were meant to serve. Instead of guiding and nurturing their people, they prioritized their own needs and desires, neglecting the very purpose of their leadership. Today’s reading serves as a reminder that true leadership is not about self-gain but about selfless service, where the welfare of others is placed above personal interests. A leader’s role is to care for and uplift those they lead, not to exploit their position for personal advantage.
(Today’s OXYGEN by Geraldine Nah)
Prayer: Jesus, we lift up world leaders and those within our communities, asking that they seek Your guidance to do what is right and best for the flock they shepherd. May they nurture and care for those entrusted to them, protecting their people from the wolves of the world, rather than sacrificing them for personal gain.
Thanksgiving: Thank You, Jesus, for being the perfect example of servant leadership. You have shown us the true meaning of humility by placing the needs of others above Your own. We acknowledge that this path is challenging for many of us, but we ask for Your help to draw closer to You, learn from Your ways, and faithfully follow in Your footsteps.
OXYGEN 
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