From the Word of the Day
For you know how one must imitate us. For we did not act in a disorderly way among you, nor did we eat food received free from anyone. On the contrary, in toil and drudgery, night and day we worked, so as not to burden any of you. Not that we do not have the right. Rather, we wanted to present ourselves as a model for you, so that you might imitate us. In fact, when we were with you, we instructed you that if anyone was unwilling to work, neither should that one eat. We hear that some are conducting themselves among you in a disorderly way, by not keeping busy but minding the business of others. Such people we instruct and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly and to eat their own food. But you, brothers, do not be remiss in doing good. (2 Thessalonians 3: 7-12)
How should we live this Word 
Paul teaches us to join the good in our life, prayer and daily work as the daily meals we eat give us sustenance. It is lovely that his exhortations are moved by his style of life that means not only doing everything for the Lord, but also with Him, together with Him, and in Him. We read a peremptory assertion just before this text: “Those who do not want to work, should not eat”. The original and Greek text give the same root to the two words: “Doing thus but in reality doing nothing”. Paul reveals his style of a man able to harmonize peace, which is typical of those who give priority to prayer, with daily work. From the distant past with Paul and other believers, Christianity has always promoted work in all its diverse expressions and places, from the tent-maker like Paul, to that of the scientist. But never frenetic work that destroys humans and their physical, psychic, and spiritual health. Work should be done in peace, the peace the Gospel tells us, “Peace to the people God loves”.
Lord, make me attentive, wise, and energetic in work. Help me to do it in You and with a peaceful heart.
The voice of Pope Francis
Prayer and action are always profoundly united. If prayer does not lead to concrete action on behalf of a person who is poor, sick, in need of help, then that prayer is sterile and not concrete. In the same way, if we give too much weight to functions and forget the centrality of Christ by not giving room for prayer, we risk not doing any good. St. Benedict summarized this in two words “ora et labora”. We must know how to live and bring God’s word. Our work and works of charity bring us to the Lord. (April 21, 2013)
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