Memorial of the Passion of Saint John the Baptist

The First Reading recounts Saint Paul’s first journey into the world with his mission to preach the gospel to all of humanity. He was filled with the love of all who would listen to him. He was willing to let Christ lead him into whatever dangers awaited him. He was treated harshly by those who refused to listen but continued courageously, knowing that Christ was with him. So it was with John the Baptist who let the Holy Spirit lead him. So it is with all of us who the Spirit guides. Sometimes we are asked to pay with our lives, but we have already given our life to Christ to do as he wills.

Saint Peter Julian Eymard also gave his life to the Lord. He did not suffer martyrdom as we understand it, but he did suffer for the Kingdom of God and brought his beloved people a great gift – A profound understanding of Jesus in the Eucharist. His trust in the Lord must have given him great consolation. He was convinced that Jesus would guide his feet, hands, and words. “I shall be the person of your personality, and your personality will be the life of my person in you.”

When we give our person over to Jesus, Psalm 129 reveals the wonderful power of Jesus within us.

Prayer:

Oh Lord, you have probed me, and you know me; you know when I sit and when I stand; you understand my thoughts from afar. My journeys and my rest you scrutinize, with all my ways you are familiar.