Ours is fast becoming the age of the anonymous Christian.  On every side there is pressure to restrict religion to being a very private individual matter.  The attitude often is a condescending tolerance of one’s right to follow Jesus provided that this does not impinge on the world at large.  The temptation to restrict one’s faith in this cosy cocoon is as insidious as it is pervasive.  The suggestion is that one may be as charitable as one likes but one must not stand up for justice for the deprived.  Fidelity is fine as long as it does not challenge the promiscuous.  Public expressions of faith must be downplayed lest they offend the sensitivities of the sophisticated.  Any comfortable lifestyle is acceptable as long as it cloaks the witness to which Jesus calls us.

Today’s gospel tells of one person who did not take refuge in anonymity but openly declared his allegiance when challenged by his contemporaries.  John the Baptist paid with his life for his open loyalty to Jesus.  He died as a witness to the truth he believed in.  It is a frightening scenario.  Yet, to live like Jesus and to bear witness to him in every aspect of our lives, will often only be done at great personal cost.  The strengthening consolation is that such courage is well rewarded and he will enable us to bear witness to him if we trust him.  It is the royal road to true happiness.

_______________________________________________________________________

Sunday Missal: Page 395 †   New Edition: Page 501

Psalm Response

My soul rejoices in my God.