Memorial of Saint Jean de Brebeuf, Isaac Jogues, and Companions, priests and martyrs
(Romans
5:12.15b,17-19.20b-21; Luke 12:35-38)
What is
life about? For some it is a pursuit of pleasure, power, or prestige. Its objective is to gather as many chips as
possible of the pursuit chosen before one’s game is over. Christians see life differently.
As Paul indicates
in today’s first reading, Jesus gave life an eternal dimension. He overcame the power of evil that made death
humankind’s destiny. The grace that he
introduced enables followers to reconceive their goal. It is no longer personal gratification but the
glory of God. This is not obsequiousness
or servility to an almighty overseer. It
is loving service to a gracious Father by caring for His children.
Today we
honor the French Jesuits known as “the North American Martyrs.” They gave their lives working among the
native tribes of upstate New York and lower Quebec. The Jesuits wanted to exhibit the Father’s
love by spreading Christian faith. They helped
the natives recognize their true goal in eternal life with God.
