Feast of the Martyrs of Korea

Good morning. Saint Andrew Kim and all the martyrs of Korea give witness to the Glory of God. They offer to us an example of what we are all called to in the words of Jesus from today’s Gospel: “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.” These individuals, the Martyrs of Korea, provide a clear message that the Kingdom is what is to be pursued in life and not the treasures of this life. In reading further on these martyrs of Korea, it was interesting to discover that initially the Korean Catholic Church had no ordained leadership. They were so isolated from the rest of Christianity that when the first Chinese priest made his way there in the late 18th century he was surprised to find 4,000 Korean Catholics already there. I have to wonder if we would possess the same fortitude to carry on without any spiritual leadership. So often in this culture of death we exist in we are inclined to view power, strength, and material things as the things which will give our life meaning and purpose. So often I meet couples who struggle in their marriage as a result of not having those things and living the lifestyle society suggests is desired. Our Saints for today and the words of Jesus in today’s Gospel make it clear that life is about much more than stuff. It is the love and the everlasting appreciation of that love which allowed these martyrs to give their lives, and the same love which connects all of us to God which gives life true meaning and gives us purpose to act. It is when we come to discern each day God’s intentions for us and put into action His love for us that we come to live a life which measures things beyond the shallow offerings of a culture of death. May we find His love in each other this day and act accordingly. Make a great day!

Today we recall the good life, gifts, and works of the Korean Martyrs.