So often in our lives as Christians, we are criticized for the things that we believe, the truths that we hold fast to, the things that we celebrate. People often say that we’re old fashioned or clinging to traditions from centuries ago. Many, even within our families, might think we’re a little crazy for continuing to go to Mass, continuing to pray the rosary, continuing to walk with Jesus. And the temptation sometimes might be to think, “Hey, maybe they’re right. Maybe I should stop doing all these things.” And then we hear these words from the Lord.

“I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body… Be afraid of the one who after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, be afraid of that one.”

When Christ speaks of having no fear of those who kill the body but after that can do no more, He means it quite literally. We will encounter situations in our lives where we must either be faithful to Christ or cave in to pressure from those around us and abandon the path of the Lord. When that happens, we should never hesitate. Always choose to follow Christ. Do not fear those who might “kill” by their criticism or disapproval of our remaining steadfast in faith. Do not be afraid.[1] Nothing anyone can say or do to us can take the gift of our faith away.

Many of us might be facing some of these challenges in our own lives right now. Or we might be looking at certain situations within the Church that are making us wonder and question our resolve to follow Christ. Keep turning to the Lord. Keep asking for His grace to get you through the challenges. Continue striving to follow Him, no matter what might come our way. Why should we do that? Because that’s how the Lord makes us saints; that’s how He allows us to embrace the fullness of holiness.

Stay the course. Persevere. Keep the faith.

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[1] Fr. Daniel Ray, LC. Paraphrase, ePriest.com, Daily Reflection, “Into the Lion’s Mouth,” October 20, 2023.

Photo: Porto, Portugal. Konstantin. Used under the Unsplash license.