For most of us it is very hard to acknowledge Jesus before others, especially those we don’t know very well. We get flustered and embarrassed and it’s hard to speak up. We listen to attacks on our church and have a difficult time speaking up and defending her.
We would never say those things ourselves, but still find it hard to stand up for Jesus. Many Catholics even find it hard to make the sign of the cross in public. We do it at home when we eat, but we find it hard in a restaurant. We say, “Maybe someone in the restaurant will think I’m Catholic !”
Maybe we don’t have to worry about being hauled into court for being a Catholic (yet), but we still have to testify to our faith every day of our lives. No matter where we go, we must witness to our faith and belief in Jesus Christ. The Greek word “martyr “ means “witness”. Therefore I need to let the Holy Spirit witness through me when I’m with others.
I need to foster the humility that looks at the greatness and holiness of God and yet recognizes my own sinfulness. The only way I can do this is by letting the Holy Spirit speak through the actions of my life. If you still find it hard to speak, remember St. Francis of Assisi said, “proclaim the Gospel at all times, and if necessary use words.”
St. Joseph, pray for us !
DeColores, Deacon Doug
