Memorial of Saints John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, Priests, and Companions, Martyrs
Can we do any less? Jesus called the eleven together and gave them a task. He told them to “go and make disciples of all nations…teaching them to observe all I have commanded you.” He sent them into the world with a mission that they, and those who came after them, would suffer and die for trying to fulfill. Missionaries have faced hardships and martyrdom following that mandate for the next two millennia.
Paul warns that following Christ could result in the body suffering, but the spirit of those who suffer would survive. Christ told the Apostles not to worry about their defense when persecuted, for the Holy Spirit would provide the words and the strength they needed. It all comes down to faith, the faith we are called to live and share daily. This faith is the paradox Paul spoke of—living and sharing the faith in the risen Christ while enduring the scorn and ridicule of those around us.
We see our faith ridiculed by those who see religion, and especially the Catholic Church, as outdated, stifling, restrictive, and superstitious. It cannot be real if it cannot be seen, felt, tasted, heard, or smelled. It has no value if it cannot be bought, sold, or hoarded. Yet we strive to share the good news and the promise Christ made to us: “I am with you always, until the end of the age.” Saints John de Brebeuf, Isaac Jogues, and their companions carried this faith to the Indigenous peoples of the Great Lakes region and gave their lives carrying out the mandate. Can we do anything less in our pursuit of sharing the good news?
Let us pray:
Father, you filled the missionaries with the desire and courage to carry the news of the risen Christ to the ends of the earth. Fill us also with that zeal, that we too may share Jesus’ gift of salvation and love with all we meet and endure whatever ridicule we may face for the love of Him. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.