12th Sunday Ordinary Time, Year A:
"Do not fear those who deprive the body of life but cannot destory the soul."
Jesus spoke these words to His apostles because He knows that like Himself, they too will suffer the fate of a prophet - martyrdom (save for the beloved disciple, John). But the Lord assures them that there is nothing to fear. They only need to fear the One who can kill both body and soul - and throw both to Gehenna. His apostles now become aware that their following of Jesus will also bring them before the courts - before kings and princes. Their will witness to the love of God and risk their lives for the faith they preach and profess. But despite this stark reality, Jesus assures them and gives them confidence and courage, because the Father loves them as much as He does. They are assured of a martyr's crown in heaven if they do not disown Jesus before these courts.
To follow Jesus and His teachings does not lead all to the opportunity to preach in the manner of the apostles and disciples. The ministry of the word in the Eucharist and the Sacraments is the responsibility of the clergy. However, post-Vatican II theology calls all the lay faithful to preach the Word of God in deeds of service. The lay faithful are called to preach the Word in action - in the very circumstances they find themselves in life and work. As the lay faithful participate in the celebration of the Sacraments, they will be granted the faith and courage to resist whatever temptation they will need to face and do what is according to God's will in their respective states of life. Fear should not weaken any soul to resist evil and do good. The Holy Spirit, the personification of love between the Father and the Son, will permeate every action with the Spirit of God's Word. If every Christian were to let himself be driven by the Spirit into the world, to enkindle every heart with God's love, then Christ's Word will truly bear fruit in good soil and the Church and her Sacraments will stand the test of time.
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