for today's reading (http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/020516.cfm)
“The blood of martyrs is
the seed of Christianity.” ~Tertullian
What is it that the saints
knew that gave them such a peace of mind in the midst of their
tribulations? Today is the feast of St.
Agatha, born into a distinguished family, who was tortured and eventually
martyred (to be venerated as a virgin martyr since Christian antiquity) for her
steadfast faith which contributed to her refusal of the illicit invitation of a
suitor. We also learn today about John the Baptist who professed our faith too,
and was held captive, probably tortured, and likewise martyred. What caused them to remain calm amidst the
tumult? St. Ambrose helps us to
understand, “The Lord is very near, there is no need to worry: the Lord
is always near to anyone who calls on him in truth, with right faith, with firm
hope, with perfect love. He himself knows what you need before you ask it of
him: he is always ready to give his faithful servants whatever help they need.
When bad things happen to us we should not be greatly worried, because we
should know that we have God close to us as our defender. The Lord is close
to those with contrite hearts; those with a broken spirit he will save. Many
are the tribulations of the just; the Lord will free them of all their
troubles. If we fight to fulfil and keep his precepts, he will not be slow
to give us the aid he has promised.”
Martyrdom was a fulfillment
of a life lived in love and service to the Lord. From the moment he leapt in
his mother’s womb, to the point of his death, John the Baptist’s whole life
pointed to Christ. It was in Christ that
he found perfect happiness. Perhaps we have been persecuted ourselves for our
Christian way of life. Sometimes extraordinary witnesses are called to offer a
greater witness to this Way of life. Our communion antiphon today reminds us, “Blessed are they who have kept the Word with a generous
heart, and yield a harvest through perseverance.” (Lk 8:15) Let us join St. Agatha and John the Baptist
in shaping our lives to point to Christ.
No comments:
Post a Comment