Catholic Homily: Fear Not, For You Are Known by God Fr. Stabin John
Introduction:
In today’s Gospel passage from Matthew 10:24-33, Jesus speaks frankly to His Twelve Apostles about the inevitable opposition they will face as they carry out their mission. Despite the challenges and persecution, He encourages them to proclaim the gospel without fear. Let us reflect on Jesus’ powerful words and their implications for our lives as disciples.
Scriptural Insight:
Jesus begins by reminding His Apostles, “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master” (Matthew 10:24). Just as He faced opposition, they too will encounter resistance. Yet, He tells them not to fear those who persecute them: “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul” (Matthew 10:28). This powerful reminder shifts the focus from earthly dangers to the eternal perspective.
The Call to Courage:
Jesus urges His Apostles to remain steadfast in their mission, even in the face of threats. He reassures them, “What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs” (Matthew 10:27). The message of the Gospel is too important to be hidden or softened out of fear. Instead, it must be boldly proclaimed.
Divine Acknowledgment:
A central promise in this passage is that those who acknowledge Jesus before others will be acknowledged by Him before the Father. “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:32). This assurance is profound, offering eternal security for those who remain faithful despite earthly persecution.
Catechism Reference:
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) highlights the importance of courage and witness in the life of a disciple. CCC 2471 states, “Before Pilate, Christ proclaims that he ‘has come into the world, to bear witness to the truth.’ The Christian is not to ‘be ashamed then of testifying to our Lord.’” This teaching underscores that, like Christ, we are called to bear witness to the truth without fear.
Real-Life Example:
Consider the story of St. Edith Stein, also known as St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross. Born into a Jewish family in Germany, Edith was a brilliant philosopher and academic. Her journey to Catholicism began through her studies, and she was baptized in 1922. As the Nazi regime rose to power, Edith was increasingly aware of the danger she faced as both a convert and a person of Jewish heritage. Despite the risks, she continued to publicly live out her faith and even entered a Carmelite convent.
In 1942, she was arrested by the Nazis and eventually transported to Auschwitz. Throughout her ordeal, she remained steadfast in her faith, ministering to others and demonstrating Christ-like love and compassion. Her martyrdom stands as a powerful witness to the truth of the Gospel and Jesus’ words: “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.”
Biblical Encouragement:
We also find encouragement in other parts of Scripture. In Romans 8:38-39, St. Paul writes, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers... will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This passage reaffirms that God’s love and protection transcend all earthly trials.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Jesus’ message in Matthew 10:24-33 is a powerful reminder that, as His disciples, we are called to proclaim the Gospel fearlessly, regardless of the opposition we face. The promise of His acknowledgment before the Father offers us hope and strength. Let us draw courage from the lives of the saints, the teachings of the Church, and the assurance of God’s unending love.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, grant us the courage to proclaim Your truth with boldness and love. Help us to remain steadfast in our faith, even in the face of persecution. May we always acknowledge Your Son, Jesus, before others, trusting in His promise to acknowledge us before You. Amen.
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