You Don’t Know Where Your Influence Really Ends …..
So much happened during St. Sylvester’s reign, but we could probably zero in on Constantine’s proclamation of the Edict of Milan, which lifted the ban against Christianity in the Roman empire.
Suddenly, Christians were no longer fed to lions.
It was also during Sylvester’s reign as pope that the Council of Nicea that hoped to crush the heresy of Arianism was convened.
Arianism, which held that Jesus was not fully divine like God the Father, was causing so much confusion and division in the young Church.
And it was also Emperor Constantine who called this first ecumenical council, not Pope Sylvester.
Interestingly, many traditions hold that the great champion of Christianity, Constantine, was actually converted by Sylvester.
Of course, the most decisive turning point in Constantine’s life was when he saw a vision that told him he would win the Battle of the Milvian Bridge through the Cross.
But I’m sure as pope, Sylvester’s holy example further impressed upon Constantine the beauty and power of the faith.
We see here how one man’s example can move another man, and another, and so on. Our life is truly a ripple whose impact never ends.
Reflecting on the life of St. Sylvester, let’s look at our own lives and with eyes of faith, see how our lives can be a miracle to others too.
The miracle of your life worked through the grace of God can be a miracle to others just as the conversion of Emperor Constantine through the example of St. Sylvester I helped forge the Church in a time of great chaos and strife.
Let us turn to Our Lady and ask her to make us like St. Sylvester I who became an instrument who would bring strategic people to God.
Written by: Mary Thérèse
REFLECTION QUESTIONS: How can I influence others through my work?
Have I inspired others to be more Christ-like? How?
How often do I ask God why He allows bad things to happen to me?
Have I realized that these events have been God’s way for me to be a blessing to others?
⚜ CALL TO ACTION:
As the year 2023 ends, evaluate your life. Evaluate your goals, your ambitions, and aspirations.
Evaluate your past, your mistakes, and your failures.
Then, ask God for the wisdom to grow from these experiences so that you can help someone see His goodness.
Power of God 
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