Blog:http://scripmed.blogspot.com Reflections on Scripture

Scripture: Nahum 2:1,3;3:1-3,6-7. Deuteronomy 32:35-36,39,41. Matthew 16:24-28

"Exempla trahunt." This Latin expression came to me as I thought about the many August days which are dedicated to the saints who were martyrs: Pope Sixtus II and companions, Benedicta (Edith Stein), St. Lawrence, Jakop Gapp, etc. These holy men and women fulfill what that Latin means,namely, "living examples attract". I was edified as I thought of these men and women who have witnessed with their life to Jesus. It is they who have understood today's Gospel and carried it out. Their lives were as vital and real as yours and mine and, of course, just as valuable. Their feelings were like ours and they laughed and smiled as we do, but they gave their lives for the sake of the Kingdom and to witness to Jesus. Jesus called, "Whoever wishes to follow me, must take up their cross, deny themselves and come after me." They responded with the giving of their lives. Yes, "exempla trahunt."

I like to read the short descriptions given about them in the small introductions on their feast days and in some of the hagiographies (life story of saints) found in the Prayer of the Church. Some liturgical aids give excellent excerpts either about them or from their writings. I am always struck by their great courage and their deep faith and trust in what Jesus says about carrying their cross. They did and they give me some good motivation for carrying my small crosses.

Most of us are fortunate enough to be in a safe environment and in a country where martyrdom does not come into play. We do have our daily concerns, trials, doubts, and duties that tire us, but this is nothing in comparison to what the martyrs have undergone for the sake of the Gospel. Complaining, bitterness, and non forgiveness are things we are called upon to fight against and to release from our behavior patterns . I can overcome these things by joining in with the prayers of the Church and by calling to mind the beautiful doctrine of the "Communion of Saints" whereby we join the martyrs and the other saints in our daily prayers and works. Let us see if we can get through this day without complaining or being impatient. Remember that is not martyrdom!