Memorial of St. Charles Lwanga and companions, martyrs
“In you, my God, I place my trust.” Ps. 91.2
A common pattern emerges in Salvation History, God initiates and we respond. God is always the one who begins in creation and the divine action, and humanity responds to it. This pattern has played out from time immemorial in Genesis, Exodus, the Prophets, to Christ’s time and the Apostles, and into our current history.
Alas, we have the example of Charles Lwanga and Companions, martyrs for the faith. Their example is the purest form of love. Martyr comes from a word meaning witness. These brave souls gave their lives for the Catholic Church as the highest form of witness. They gave up the lives they were given for the God who had granted them life itself. An argument is made that martyrdom for the faith is rewarded by a direct ascent to Heaven. While I don’t know if this has been resolved decisively, the sacrifice of someone’s life for their faith is the greatest expression of selfless love. Let us give thanks for the martyrs who laid the foundation for the Church and inspired it by this holy witness. Let us rise to live out this martyrdom in our lives, day by day and step by step. Let this be our response to God’s initiative. Amen.
Reflection by Br. Matthew Marie, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections