Monday of the 5th week in the ordinary time
Theme: The love of God
Today the church celebrates the memorial of St. Paul Miki and his companions were martyred in Nagasaki, Japan. They were the first martyrs from Japan. It is said that while Paul Miki hung on the cross for execution, he continued to preach to the people on the execution ground. St. Paul Miki and his companions joyfully embraced martyrdom for their faith in God, and remained steadfast until death. The challenges encountered as a result of our faith in God, can come in different ways, are we prepared for it? This challenge can come in the form of doing things differently from what others are doing, in line with our faith in God. It could be in your place of work or in the market place. Let your faith in God always guide our actions at all times, not minding what others around you are doing. Each time we fail to speak the truth and stand for what is right; we are simply denying our faith and also the opportunity to make a positive change in our society. It may seem little to you as a person, but if we all opt for what is right and good at all times; you will be surprised at the level of impact it will make in our society. We may not have to shed our blood like St. Paul Miki and his companions, but we can stand firm in the face of persecution by speaking and doing the right thing.
My brothers and sisters in Christ, when we are driven by the love of God, we can do anything for God, without any form of fear. It is interesting to note that while St. Paul Miki was hanging on the cross for execution, he still had the courage to be preaching to his executioners; this is what faith and love can do to us. Let this consciousness continue to guide our actions at all times, especially when things are not going the way we want it as a result of our faith in God. When we allow the love of God to guide our actions, you can be rest assured that God is with you all the way, whether you feel his presence or not.
Dearly beloved in Christ, in the gospel reading of today we are told that all those who touched the garment of Jesus was restored to health, this is practical faith at work. They did not request that he prays for them or touch them, rather they believed that touching his garment is all they need for their healing and their faith did not disappoint them. Go to God in faith today, and present that situation in your life that needs his intervention, he will not disappoint you.
May the Lord bless you in the name of the father and of the son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Peace be with you.