St. Euphrasia, whose feast day we observe today, was born in about 380 to a family of Roman nobles. Her father died soon after she was born, 
and she and her mother moved to property the family owned near a convent in Egypt. Euphrasia’s mother died shortly after the child chose to enter the convent.
When Euphrasia was twelve, the Roman emperor ordered her to come back and fulfill a marriage pledge that had been made on her behalf. Instead, she asked the emperor to sell of the family’s wealth and to use the funds to help the poor and free slaves. The emperor agreed to do this.
Now, despite all this goodness and grace, Euphrasia from time to time was tempted by the devil. She’s often depicted doing what she did to resist these temptations: she would move a large pile of rocks from one place to another to keep herself occupied physically, mentally and spiritually.
Today’s readings include this verse from Psalm 138: Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.
Consider Euphrasia’s response to temptation. In what ways is the Lord answering your call for help with an invitation to physical activity? When you feel tempted to gossip or criticize today, take a walk, inside or outside, even if it’s just for a couple of minutes.
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