Called to courageous witness

Scripture for Mass

Jeremiah 20:10-13

Psalm 69(68): 8-10.14, 17. 33-35. Response: 14c

Romans 5:12-15

Matthew 10:26-33

Stories about martyrs in other places or in earlier ages makes us grateful that religious freedom is prized in our own country in recent times. However, such stories can also make us feel smug because we easily assume that modern society – in contrast to the ‘dark ages’ or ‘backward places’ – is enlightened and tolerant.

But are we confusing enlightenment and tolerance for ignorance and indifference? Many of us not only have a very limited understanding of our own faith or of the religious beliefs and practises of those around us, but we have also lost the sense of how religion might contribute to the overall well-being of an individual or of society. Perhaps, this is the reason why modern society prefers to avoid any reference to religion in the public domain. Consequently, most people – those who without any religious beliefs, as well as those who are deeply devout – have come to view matters of religion and faith as a strictly personal and private matter.

Yet, Jesus asks us to proclaim our faith from the rooftops and to be willing to suffer for doing so.  And indeed, if we Christians were to take a firm and critical stance in public on matters that are contrary to God’s vision for our world today – such as, national migration policies, social injustices, and ecological destruction – we would likely face ridicule and rejection.  However, Jesus calls us to persevere as ‘living martyrs,’ confident that even if our life’s work were blotted out by public indifference or hostility, nothing will be lost in God’s sight.