When asked about the rules for becoming holy, Saint John Bosco replied:
- always being cheerful;
- Confession, Eucharistic Communion, and prayer;
- doing one's duty well, helping others.
In the small things of each day, in the work we carry out with dedication, love, and a sense of responsibility, we are called to sanctify ourselves. In Gaudete et exsultate, Pope Francis encourages us not to become discouraged by «models of holiness that appear unattainable», because we must follow the «unique and specific path that the Lord has in store for us». The path to holiness can in fact be followed by everyone; we are all called to become saints, not because of what we do, but because of how we do it.
Being holy in everyday work
In the hectic pace of modern life, it may seem difficult to think of holiness as something attainable. Yet our everyday work can become precisely the place where we transform our lives into an extraordinary mission.
Whether caring for a wound, answering a phone call, or helping a colleague in difficulty, every small action is an opportunity to show love, compassion, and generosity.
Saint Francis de Sales used to say: «Do well whatever you do, for the love of God». This is the approach that helps us live holiness through our daily occupations, whether small or great. This is where the key lies: not so much in changing what we do, but in doing it with a heart open to love and service.
The example of Saint Giuseppe Moscati
A splendid example of holiness in ordinary work is Saint Giuseppe Moscati, a Neapolitan doctor who lived his profession as a true vocation of charity. He was an impeccable model of a physician conscious of his professional duty and his lofty mission alongside human suffering. From 1903 until his death, he devoted himself entirely to scientific research and, at the same time, to hospital service.
With great generosity and love, he carries out his mission among the sick, providing free care to those most in need.
In the waiting room of his private practice, there is a notice regulating fees: «Those who can, let them contribute; those in need, let them take».
For Giuseppe Moscati, work is a form of prayer, a means of sanctifying himself and drawing others closer to God. The hectic rhythm of his days finds order and nourishment in the daily Eucharist. Paul VI said of him: «He is a layman who made his life a mission pursued with evangelical authenticity, making splendid use of the talents he received from God. […] The figure of Professor Moscati confirms that the vocation to holiness is for everyone; indeed, it is possible for everyone».
Holiness is within everyone's reach
Following the example of Saint Giuseppe Moscati, we can understand that holiness is within reach for all of us, regardless of the role we hold in society. It is not reserved only for priests, religious, or those who perform great acts of charity, but is a path we can undertake through faithfulness in small things.
Every day, we are offered countless opportunities to do good: a smile, a comforting word, a patient gesture. The real challenge is to do so with love, making extraordinary what may seem merely ordinary.
Let us follow the examples of the saints without ever growing weary, even when our daily routine seems to weigh us down. Let us never stop walking the path of light that God has prepared for each of us.
Have you ever reflected on the call to holiness? Do you live your daily activities and your work with this perspective? If you wish, you can share your thoughts in the comments.
Would you like to learn more about the life of Saint Giuseppe Moscati?
