October 19, 2026 // Memorial of Saints John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, Priests, and Companions, Martyrs [In the Dioceses of the United States]

Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s First Reading: Ephesians 2:11-10

Reflect on the Word // 

Within a day, everything changed. Within a week, I had left my home, moved into a new apartment and begun daily medical treatments for a sudden health crashout from chronic illness. 

Noooo! I protested with the Lord. I am supposed to be back at my art program apprenticing under my master artist teacher.

I am your Teacher. Jesus reminded me firmly and truthfully, I am the Master Artist. You apprentice under Me.

But You called me there, and I moved my entire life to follow You and to study and train at this academy.

It’s okay. I am now creating you as a masterpiece of art, He said in my heart, silencing my protests. 

Sometimes God raises us up and seats us in the heavenly places with Him (see Ephesians 2:6) through experiences that we would not like to undergo. He changes our plans, even plans and callings that He Himself has given to us. Like my year of severe medical intervention, there are times that He invites us to join Him up on the Cross. 

These seasons may not be pretty and may really hurt, but these experiences are never meant to be meaningless suffering. It is for our salvation, to “show the immeasurable riches of his grace in his kindness to us” (Ephesians 2:7). It is for God to make us into His masterpiece. “For we are his handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for good works that God has prepared in advance” (Ephesians 2:10).

Jesus is the Divine Artist, the Master Teacher, holding us and forming us in His creative hands.  Whether this current season is one of suffering or contentment, let us celebrate this “gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). He is making you into His beloved masterpiece. 

Relate to the Lord // If possible, make some time today to go before our Lord in the Eucharist. Ask Him to continue to transform you into His masterpiece.