Seeing Others as Christ Sees: The Gospel Call Revealed in Soldiers and Saints

I was hungry. You fed me thirsty. You gave me to drink. I was alone, and you were with me. I was naked and you clothed me. This marvelously simple description of the greatness of Christian life.

That ability, not so much to see Jesus in each other as to see others as Jesus sees them.

Today’s Gospel draws from Matthew’s teaching on the Final Judgment, . . .

. . . where Jesus separates people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats, praising those who cared for “the least of His brothers.”

The Homily then focuses on Saint Martin of Tours, a soldier-turned-bishop whose famous act of charity . . . cutting his cloak to clothe a beggar . . . reveals the heart of the Gospel: seeing others as Christ sees them and responding with compassion. Martin’s life of disciplined holiness, service, and unwavering focus on Christ is presented as a model of Christian discipleship.

Seeing Others as Christ Sees Them

The Homily also highlights two American military chaplains whose causes for sainthood are advancing: Father Vincent Capodanno, a Marine chaplain killed in Vietnam after repeatedly risking his life to save wounded soldiers, and Father Emil Kapaun, a Korean War chaplain known for heroic sacrifice, spiritual strength, and care for fellow prisoners of war. Each embodies Christlike service . . . feeding the hungry, comforting the suffering, and valuing every human life.

On Veterans Day, the Homily emphasizes that the vocation of a soldier, when lived with compassion and courage, mirrors the Gospel call to serve others. As Christ nourishes and strengthens us in the Eucharist, we are sent forth to care for the hungry, the thirsty, and the vulnerable in our own lives, following the example of these remarkable witnesses.

Listen to:

Seeing Others as Christ Sees: The Gospel Call Revealed in Soldiers and Saints

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Art Work

Seeing Others as Christ Sees: The Gospel Call Revealed in Soldiers and Saints : AI and Queen of All Hearts’ Digital Team: 2025