Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and companions, martyrs
(Genesis 1:1-19; Mark 6:53-56)
Although the story of creation in Genesis is not
scientifically or historically accurate, it gives an important lesson about
God. Unlike other creation myths,
Genesis does not mention God slaying other gods to create. Rather, He creates peacefully and simply by His
word. This truth has repercussions in
the Judeo-Christian inclination to peaceful resolution of conflict.
Today we remember the Japanese martyrs, St. Paul Miki and
companions. They worshipped God in the highest way possible. They gave their lives in testimony to God’s
greatest creation, the humanity of His Son, Jesus Christ. The martyrs taught Christ’s love and
compassion in an oppressive society where warlords ruled the people. In time, no doubt influenced by the martyrs
and the Western Christian tradition, Japan gave up its militaristic form of
government.
The legacy of Christ understands the world as created in
peace and redeemed by love. Like the
Japanese martyrs, we are to claim and to pass on this legacy. We can be sure that it will lead to happiness
in a limited way now and an infinite way upon entering fully into God’s
kingdom.
