On Sainthood

June 29 Solemnity of Sts .Peter and Paul Sunday Reflection

“I have competed well, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
-2 Timothy 4:7

Readings:
Acts 12:1-11
Psalm 34:2-3,4-5,6-7,8-9
2 Timothy 4:6-8,17-18
Matthew 16:13-19

One of my bedside books now is “Asian Saints” by Fr. Francis X. Clark, SJ. This inspiring work narrates the colorful lives of the Asian martyrs. I couldn't help but see ow our verse today resonates loudly in the choices these saints have made. Here are some of their last words...

“Courage, go on. Cut me in as many pieces as you wish, and you will see that every piece is Catholic,” said Blesses Si, an 18-year-old Chinese whose right arm had been cut off because of his faith.

“I profess the religion of the Lord of heaven and earth, I will never deny it.... If you allow me to live, good; it not, I die with pleasure,” said Lawrence Ngon, a Vietnamese layman.

“I am afraid to die, but I am more afraid to deny God,” said Son Cha-son, a 28-year-old Korean who has strangled after he spoke these decisive words.

“You may kill us, but you cannot kill the Church and you cannot kill God,” said Sr. Agnes Phila, 31, who was killed with rifles in Thailand.

“For God I will give many thousand lives if I had them,” said our own Lorenzo Ruiz.
My friend, how have we kept our faith?- Lallaine Gogna

Reflection:
Think of concrete steps on how you can become a “saint” in your own situation.

Prayer:
Lord, give me courage and boldness to run my race and make You proud.


sent by : ChristianYouth