Reflection for Friday October 17 Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr: Luke 12:1-7

Gospel: Luke 12:1-7

At that time: So many people were crowding together that they were trampling one another underfoot. Jesus began to speak, first to his disciples, “Beware of the leaven–that is, the hypocrisy–of the Pharisees.

“There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops. 

I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body but after that can do no more. I shall show you whom to fear. Be afraid of the one who after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, be afraid of that one. Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins?

Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God. Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.”

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Reflection: 

Have we ever openly voiced our opinion about something that is clearly wrong? For example, when we notice something that isn’t right within our family or in our church community—what do we normally do? Do we simply stay silent, as if we see nothing and hear nothing, because we’re afraid that we might be misunderstood or rebuked?

The best course of action for us in such a situation is to do something that will help resolve the problem. Keeping silent and pretending to see and hear nothing is never an option for followers of Jesus. We are called to act without fear and to do what is right, good, and pleasing to God.

As followers of Jesus, we must make sure that we remain relevant and involved in the life of our faith communities. We are meant to be catalysts of peace, builders of bridges, and instruments of reconciliation. This is what it truly means to follow Jesus: to courageously step into situations where we can bring light, truth, and harmony.

But to be effective, we must do this with calmness, humility, and love. We should not throw our weight around or bully others to get our way. Instead, we are to reflect the gentle yet powerful presence of Jesus in every word we speak and every action we take. For how can we become His instruments of healing and reconciliation if we act like bullies or dictators?

Let us be courageous yet gentle, bold yet humble, firm yet loving—just like Jesus.

Are we willing to step out of our silence and become God’s voice of truth and peace in our homes, communities, and the world around us? — Marino J. Dasmarinas