LOVING OTHERS AMIDST OPPOSITIONS - 1/21/23 (Memorial of Saint Agnes, Virgin and Martyr)

Mark 3:20–21

Jesus came with his disciples into the house.  Again the crowd gathered, making it impossible for them even to eat.  When his relatives heard of this they set out to seize him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.” 

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012123.cfm

Blessed Memorial of St. Agnes! When we think of our life as Catholics and the journey that awaits us, what do we imagine? Do we imagine that we will gain riches? Do we imagine that more people will like us because of our Catholic faith? Do we imagine that things will always go according to our plans? Though we don't know what will happen in the future, we should look at what happened to Jesus because He is the One whom we are following. The gospel reading today was brief but impactful. It spoke of the numerous people who were following Christ, and it also mentioned how His relatives thought that He was out of His mind. Not just that these were offensive words, but it came from His own relatives. Unfortunately, as we continue to persevere in life of holiness in this world, we should not be surprised to see many people who are saying negative words at us or at our faith. It's because the teachings of Jesus and the Catholic Church are against the worldly and sinful lifestyle that many people are living in, and as a result, we should not be surprised when they attack us instead of accepting the truth from Christ. Though the teachings of Jesus is really good for our souls, our Lord is reminding us of the reality that we face so that we can depend on God for the strength to do our mission amidst this culture. 

We may not just expect these negative reactions from people because for many of us, we already have experienced this from others, even from those who are close to us. We may hear from our own family members their criticisms of the Church. When we speak of the truth of Christ about marriage and about other things, even in a gentle manner, our friends may say negative words and personal attacks at us. But, what do we do in these situations? Do we also become angry with them? Let's reflect on the love of Christ for all people. He knew the thoughts of the Pharisees, scribes, and even His own relatives, but He remained patient and merciful with them. Despite how offensive they were to Him, Jesus still offered Himself on the Cross for our salvation. The events in our lives may not be easy, and we have our own crosses to bear. We don't need to go to far places because we may experience sufferings in our own families and friends. But, let's remember that this is an opportunity to imitate the love of Christ. May we choose to love all people, especially those who offend us, and may we forgive them of their sins. Let's always pray for their conversion and let's remember that God hears our prayers. Even though it's difficult to accept such sufferings, Jesus is always on our side. He will strengthen us in our spiritual journey as we follow the way of Christ. 

Amen +

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Saint Agnes, Virgin and Martyr—Memorial:

https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/january-21-st-agnes-virgin-martyr/

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Summary and Defense of Catholic Teachings:

https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth