Memorial of Saint Justin, Martyr
(II Peter 1:2-7; Mark 12:1-12)
Today’s first reading resonates with the life of its patron,
St. Justin Martyr. The reading speaks of
the need to fortify one’s hope with virtue.
Desiring eternal life alone will not accomplish it. Rather, we must strive to live in accord with
the classical virtues. Christ will then
crown our achievement with the courage to live and die for him.
St. Justin was such a sterling example of a virtuous life crowned
with Christ that “Martyr” has become his last name. Born of pagan parents, he studied philosophy
before he became a Christian. When he converted,
he used his developed reasoning and oratory skills to defend the Church. His legacy includes not only arguments for
Christianity but also descriptions of early Christian liturgy.
The word “martyr” today is often used to chide someone who
strives to live virtuously. Some would
say to such a person, “Why do want to be a martyr?” as if the person wanted harm
to be done to her. However, the root meaning of “martyr” is witness --
not necessarily dying witness but living witness as well. We all can and should strive to be martyrs.
