Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, bishop and martyr
(Romans 1:16-25; Luke 11:37-41)
Like St. Paul in today’s first reading San Ignatius of
Antioch could say, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel.” Ignatius died a martyr for
the sake of Jesus Christ. He is famous
for having written letters to Christian communities on his way to martyrdom in Rome. Each gives insight into Catholic life in the
early part of the second century.
The paganism, which Paul critiques in the passage, stands in
stark contrast to the Gospel. It has not
left the world scene. Today it might be
found around the abortion centers where the human effects of lust are exterminated. God created the human person with dignity that
comes from the ability to know what is good and to opt for it. Disgracefully, many have chosen to ignore
what is evident to their eyes because it interferes with their desires.
Hopefully, the world will come to its senses as science ever
more clearly shows that a human life begins at conception. Then men and women will need both courage and
love to put into practice the logical conclusion. Repulsion for abortion will reduce the
tenacious hold of paganism on humanity.
