From Living Faith Daily Catholic Devotions (Jan/Feb/Mar 2026)

St. Katharine Drexel

Isaiah 1:10, 16-20 + Psalm 50:8-9, 16-17, 21, 23 + Matthew 23:1-12

The Greatness of Service

The greatest among you must be your servant. Matthew 23:11

St. Katharine Drexel was a powerhouse: a modern American saint whose heart was on fire for the Lord. Her greatness was shown not in her abundant inheritances as an heiress but in what she did with what she had: She gave, she served. Black and Native American children, who had faced crushing poverty and discrimination, were uplifted and educated by Katharine’s generosity. She was great because she served.

Most people of faith will not inherit vast material wealth to dispense to those in need. But Christ gives each of us time, talent or treasure to serve those in need and thus serve Jesus, ultimately. Orienting our gaze heavenward by prayer, the sacraments and otherwise living the Gospel will ensure that our service is truly great in God’s eyes.

Lord God, with inspiration from St. Katharine Drexel, draw us to serve others, and you, according to your holy will.

□ Mr. Justin McClain, O.P. (Justin McClain is a veteran Catholic educator, author and consultant. He and his family live in Maryland within the Archdiocese of Washington).