Martyrs amid Modern Times

 The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary for the Feast of ST. JEAN DE BRÉBEUF and ST. ISAAC JOGUES and Companions in Canada invite us to reflect on martyrs and modern circumstances.

Modern Martyrs for Creation

The Reading from the Book of Revelation proclaims Triumph of the Elect.

* [7:9] White robes,palm branches: symbols of joy and victory; see note on Rev 3:5.

* [7:10] Salvation comes from: literally, “(let) salvation (be ascribed) to.” A similar hymn of praise is found at the fall of the dragon (Rev 12:10) and of Babylon (Rev 19:1).

* [7:14] Time of great distress: fierce persecution by the Romans; cf. Introduction.

* [7:17] Life-giving water: literally, “the water of life,” God’s grace, which flows from Christ; cf. Rev 21:6; 22:1, 17; Jn 4:10, 14. (Revelation, CHAPTER 7 | USCCB, n.d.)

The Reading from the Second Letter of Paul to the Corinthians presents The Paradox of the Ministry.

* [4:7] This treasure: the glory that he preaches and into which they are being transformed. In earthen vessels: the instruments God uses are human and fragile; some imagine small terracotta lamps in which light is carried.

* [4:8–9] A catalogue of his apostolic trials and afflictions. Yet in these the negative never completely prevails; there is always some experience of rescue, of salvation.

* [4:10–11] Both the negative and the positive sides of the experience are grounded christologically. The logic is similar to that of 2 Cor 1:3–11. His sufferings are connected with Christ’s, and his deliverance is a sign that he is to share in Jesus’ resurrection.

* [4:12–15] His experience does not terminate in himself, but in others (12, 15; cf. 2 Cor 1:4–5). Ultimately, everything is ordered even beyond the community, toward God (2 Cor 4:15; cf. 2 Cor 1:11).

* [4:13–14] Like the Psalmist, Paul clearly proclaims his faith, affirming life within himself despite death (2 Cor 4:10–11) and the life-giving effect of his experience upon the church (2 Cor 4:12, 14–15). And place us with you in his presence: Paul imagines God presenting him and them to Jesus at the parousia and the judgment; cf. 2 Cor 11:2; Rom 14:10. (2 Corinthians, CHAPTER 4 | USCCB, n.d.)

The Gospel of Luke proclaims The Conditions of Discipleship.

* [9:23] Daily: this is a Lucan addition to a saying of Jesus, removing the saying from a context that envisioned the imminent suffering and death of the disciple of Jesus (as does the saying in Mk 8:34–35) to one that focuses on the demands of daily Christian existence.

(Luke, CHAPTER 9 | USCCB, n.d.)

The Gospel of John implies that through his death Jesus will be accessible to all.

* [12:24] This verse implies that through his death Jesus will be accessible to all. It remains just a grain of wheat: this saying is found in the synoptic triple and double traditions (Mk 8:35; Mt 16:25; Lk 9:24; Mt 10:39; Lk 17:33). John adds the phrases (Jn 12:25) in this world and for eternal life.

* [12:25] His life: the Greek word psychē refers to a person’s natural life. It does not mean “soul,” for Hebrew anthropology did not postulate body/soul dualism in the way that is familiar to us.(John, CHAPTER 12 | USCCB, n.d.)

Don Schwager quotes “The scapegoat foreshadowed Christ's passion”, by Cyril of Alexandria (376-444 AD)

"The mystery of the passion may be seen also in another instance. According to the Mosaic law, two goats were offered. They were not different in any way from one another (Leviticus 16:7-8), but they were alike in size and appearance. Of these, one was called 'the lord,' and the other was called 'sent-away.' When the lot was cast for the one called 'lord,' it was sacrificed. The other one was sent away from the sacrifice, and therefore had the name of 'sent-away.' Who was signified by this? The Word, though he was God, was in our likeness and took the form of us sinners, as far as the nature of the flesh was concerned. The male or female goat was sacrificed for sins. Death was our desert, for we had fallen under the divine curse because of sin. When the Savior of all undertook the responsibility, he transferred to himself what was due to us and laid down his life, that we might be sent away from death and destruction."(excerpt from COMMENTARY ON LUKE, HOMILY 53) (Schwager, n.d.)

Father Richard Rohr, OFM, introduces Rabbi Amy Eilberg who acknowledges the daily commitment required to make peace in ourselves, among others, and in the world.

Peacebuilding practice is an expression of spiritual virtues valued in most religious traditions, such as kindness, compassion, gentleness, generosity, patience, and respect for all people…. [1]

It is as simple and as challenging as this. The desire for the well-being of all people is what moves us to work for peace, and this same desire makes it possible for us to care for all people in any conflict. Though we may be more connected to one “side” or more inclined toward one viewpoint in the dispute, on a deeper level, we sense a bond of common humanity with everyone involved. We want what is best for all of them. Like a parent responding to estrangement among her children, she wants for all of them to be happy, for all of them to thrive, for all of them to be free of the pain of ruptured relationships…. The more of us adopt this goal as an intention for our lives, the more peace and harmony there will be in the world. [2] (Rohr, n.d.)

We contemplate the action we may have to consider to be true to our Baptismal Anointing as priest, prophet, and leader.

References

John, CHAPTER 12 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Bible Readings, Audio and Video Every Morning | USCCB. Retrieved September 26, 2026, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/john/12 

Luke, CHAPTER 9 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Bible Readings, Audio and Video Every Morning | USCCB. Retrieved September 26, 2026, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/luke/9 

Revelation, CHAPTER 7 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved September 26, 2026, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/revelation/7 

Rohr, R. (n.d.). Nonviolence: A Christian Calling: Weekly Summary. Center for Action and Contemplation. Retrieved September 26, 2026, from https://cac.org/daily-meditations/nonviolence-a-christian-calling-weekly-summary/ 

Schwager, D. (n.d.). They Were Astonished at the Majesty of God. Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations – Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations. Retrieved September 26, 2026, from https://www.dailyscripture.net/daily-meditation/? 

2 Corinthians, CHAPTER 4 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved September 26, 2026, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/2corinthians/4 

Shepherd and Mother

The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary today, when we celebrate Mothers and Jesus as the Good Shepherd, resonate with our understanding of knowing and caring for the “little ones” for which they are love and nurturing.

Care by Name by the Shepherd

The reading from the Acts of the Apostles begins with the Address of Paul and Barnabas to the Gentiles.

* [13:46] The refusal to believe frustrates God’s plan for his chosen people; however, no adverse judgment is made here concerning their ultimate destiny. Again, Luke, in the words of Paul, speaks of the priority of Israel in the plan for salvation (see Acts 10:36).

* [13:51] See note on Lk 9:5. (Acts of the Apostles, CHAPTER 13 | USCCB, n.d.)

Psalm 100 invites the people to Thanksgiving.

* [Psalm 100] A hymn inviting the people to enter the Temple courts with thank offerings for the God who created them.

* [100:3] Although the people call on all the nations of the world to join in their hymn, they are conscious of being the chosen people of God. (Psalms, PSALM 100 | USCCB, n.d.)

The reading from the Book of Revelation proclaims the Triumph of the Elect.

* [7:1–17] An interlude of two visions precedes the breaking of the seventh seal, just as two more will separate the sixth and seventh trumpets (Rev 10). In the first vision (Rev 7:1–8), the elect receive the seal of the living God as protection against the coming cataclysm; cf. Rev 14:1; Ez 9:4–6; 2 Cor 1:22; Eph 1:13; 4:30. The second vision (Rev 7:9–17) portrays the faithful Christians before God’s throne to encourage those on earth to persevere to the end, even to death. (Revelation, CHAPTER 7 | USCCB, n.d.)

In the Gospel of John, Jesus declares the Unity of Father and Son.

* [10:29] The textual evidence for the first clause is very divided; it may also be translated: “As for the Father, what he has given me is greater than all,” or “My Father is greater than all, in what he has given me.”

* [10:30] This is justification for Jn 10:29; it asserts unity of power and reveals that the words and deeds of Jesus are the words and deeds of God. (John, CHAPTER 10 | USCCB, n.d.)

Maureen McCann Waldron reflects on how hard it is for her, in the modern world, to understand the incredibly close connection between a shepherd and his sheep.

Like my three year old granddaughter, I want to say, “I can do it myself!”

“Jesus’ voice is unique,” Pope Francis says. “If we learn to distinguish it, he guides us on the path of life, a path that goes beyond even the abyss of death.” It is that path that my heart longs to follow, to listen to the voice of Jesus calling to me. And when I finally realize I have lost my way and wandered off the path, I can follow that voice to be safe and secure.

Jesus, thank you for helping me to listen to your voice. When I am too busy and distracted, I can't hear you calling me to come home to the warmth of your love. Whether I pay attention or not, I know you are waiting there for me, always, with your open arms and your endlessly loving gaze. Help me to take time each morning to sit in the quiet with you and to thank for this great gift of your love. Help me recognize your voice and to recognize that your guidance and comfort are all that I need. (McCann, 2016)

Don Schwager quotes “The Great might of Christ's hand,” by Cyril of Alexandria, 376-444 A.D.

"The faithful also have the help of Christ, and the devil is not able to snatch them. Those who have an endless enjoyment of good things remain in Christ's hand, no one thereafter snatching them away from the bliss that is given to them. [No one can throw them] into punishment or torments. For it is not possible that those who are in Christ's hand should be snatched away to be punished because of the great might Christ has. For 'the hand' in the divine Scripture signifies 'the power'- It cannot be doubted therefore that the hand of Christ is unconquerable and mighty to all things." (excerpt from the COMMENTARY ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 7.1) (Schwager, n.d.)

The Word Among Us Meditation on Revelation 7:9, 14-17 comments that Jesus, the Lamb of God, is a perfect shepherd for us.

Here’s why:

• This Lamb is a shepherd who lived his life completely obedient to the will of his Father. Every moment, he united himself with God’s will. He alone perfectly walked in the path of righteousness, so of course he knows how to lead us on the same path!

• This Lamb is a shepherd who defeated the powers of darkness through his humble self-offering. He freely handed himself over to death on the cross. When he rose from the dead, he defeated sin and death! He is uniquely able to protect us in the face of whatever trouble or foe comes our way.

• This Lamb is a shepherd who poured out his own blood on the cross to cleanse us from all impurity. The water that flowed from his pierced side is the living water of Baptism and new life. It is to this life-giving water that he leads us.

• This Lamb is a shepherd who has suffered in every way we have. He embraced our weakness and frailty. His experience of sorrow makes him all the more attentive to our own, and he tenderly wipes away our tears.

As you celebrate Good Shepherd Sunday today, spend some time considering Jesus, the Lamb who is your shepherd. Rejoice that he has not left you to make your way on this journey alone. He has gone before you, and he will lead you home.

“Jesus, Good Shepherd of my soul, thank you for your love and protection!” (Meditation on Revelation 7:9, 14-17, n.d.)

Friar Jude Winkler, after going to the Synagogue, and being rejected, turned to the Gentiles in the marketplace where Paul was a maker of awnings. Persecution causes the disciples to leave the City joyful for the privilege of suffering as witness to Jesus. Friar Jude reminds us that in the Garden Mary Magdalene recognized Him when He called her, as He is Shepherd to us, by name.

Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, speaks of the significance of our first images of God. Author Shannon K. Evans considers the importance of allowing both masculine and feminine qualities in our experience of God: 

The feminine elements in God are an important balance to the masculine ones. If all we have known of the divine is God the Father, we are walking with a spiritual limp, yes, even those of us who were lucky enough to be raised to see “him” as loving and tender rather than aloof or stern…. 

The masculinity of God is not the culprit here. Imaging God as male is valuable and good for our spiritual selves…. But left unbalanced, a belief in a God who is exclusively male can lead us down a road of legalism, perfectionism, fear, self-criticism, and a plaguing sense of unworthiness. Sadly, many of our religious experiences have been marked by such things.  

On the other hand, when we integrate the divine feminine into our understanding of God, we find we have an easier time internalizing compassion, inclusivity, radical acceptance, justice for the outcast, and unconditional love. In my own life the divine feminine has offered me a maternal invitation to rest and be present. After a lifetime of assuming that striving and sacrifice would always be required for my spiritual growth, this was good news indeed. [1]  

Richard concludes:  

Whoever God is, God is somehow profoundly revealed in what it means to be feminine and masculine—both! But in our time, we have to find a way to recognize, to fall in love with, and to trust the feminine face of God. Most of us were not given that face in our churches, although we Catholics resolved it in an ingenious way through Mary. She, for many people, has become the accessible, trustworthy, and safe face of God.  (Rohr, n.d.)

We ponder the image of the Shepherd as we celebrate our mothers and seek to deepen our experience of “feminine” associations with Love and God as mercy, compassion, inclusion, and forgiveness.

References

Acts of the Apostles, CHAPTER 13 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved May 11, 2025, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/acts/13?14 

John, CHAPTER 10 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved May 11, 2025, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/john/10?27 

McCann, M. (2016, April 17). Creighton U. Daily Reflection. Online Ministries. Retrieved May 11, 2025, from https://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Archive/2016/041716.html 

Meditation on Revelation 7:9, 14-17. (n.d.). The Word Among Us: Homepage. Retrieved May 11, 2025, from https://wau.org/meditations/2025/05/11/1273481/ 

Psalms, PSALM 100 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved May 11, 2025, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/psalms/100?1 

Revelation, CHAPTER 7 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved May 11, 2025, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/revelation/7?9 

Rohr, R. (n.d.). Daily Meditations — Center for Action and Contemplation. Center for Action and Contemplation. Retrieved May 11, 2025, from https://cac.org/daily-meditations/our-first-glimpse-of-love/ 

Schwager, D. (n.d.). My Sheep Hear My Voice. Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations – Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations. Retrieved May 11, 2025, from https://www.dailyscripture.net/daily-meditation/?ds_year=2025&date=may11