June 5, 2026
— John of Montecorvino · Source: Letter from Cambalec (Khanbaliq), 8 January 1305, tr. H. Yule, Cathay and the Way Thither, vol. III (1914)
1 Corinthians 3:6-7 I planted, Apollos watered, but God made it grow. So the one who plants is nothing, nor the one who waters is nothing, but God who makes it grow.
In the desolate city of Dadu, Montecorvino toiled alone for years until he was grey before sixty, yet, unconcerned with personal gain or the passing of time, he simply asked for brethren of exemplary life to come and join the work. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, we often worry about whether our efforts will be rewarded or whether the outcome will be perfect. This passage reminds me that my responsibility is to act with love, and as for future achievements and the arrangement of time, I should humbly leave them to God with a heart of obedience and surrender.
Merciful God, thank you for allowing me to witness the unreserved entrustment of our forefathers. Grant me pure faith, so that when facing life's unknowns and toil, I may not dwell on my own weaknesses and limitations, but only look to your omnipotence. I willingly entrust my work, family responsibilities, and the desires of my heart to you, like a seed. Remove my anxiety, grant me perseverance and peace, for I firmly believe that it is you who causes all things to grow. Amen.