Today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saints John de Brébeuf, Isaac Jogues, and their companions—courageous missionaries who gave their lives for the faith in North America. Their martyrdom reminds us of the cost of discipleship and the enduring strength found in Christ.
In the first reading from Ephesians 1:15-23, Paul offers a prayer of thanksgiving and intercession for the Church. He prays that the community may receive a "spirit of wisdom and revelation" to know God more deeply and to understand the hope to which they are called—the inheritance of the saints and the surpassing greatness of God’s power. This passage highlights that the same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work in us, giving us courage, wisdom, and a sense of purpose.
In Luke 12:8-12, Jesus reminds His followers not to be afraid to acknowledge Him before others. Even in the face of persecution, Jesus promises the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who will give us the words to say when we are challenged. The Gospel emphasizes the importance of fidelity to Christ, especially in moments of difficulty, and it assures us that God’s Spirit will empower and sustain us.
The martyrs we commemorate today lived these Scriptures in a profound way. Like Paul, they hoped in the promise of Christ, who was raised from the dead and seated at the right hand of the Father. They acknowledged Jesus before others with courage, even knowing the dangers they faced. Despite the hostility, they trusted the Holy Spirit, who granted them the grace to remain faithful unto death.
The witness of these martyrs challenges us today. We may not face the same physical dangers, but our call to be witnesses to Christ remains the same. It may mean standing up for our faith in our communities, defending the truth with love, or sacrificing personal comfort to serve others. In every trial, we are reminded that God’s power is at work within us—the same power that enabled Saints John, Isaac, and their companions to persevere.
Let us ask God for a deepened spirit of wisdom and revelation, that we too might know the hope to which we are called. And let us trust the Holy Spirit, who speaks through us when we bear witness to Christ. May we, like the martyrs, be courageous in our faith and steadfast in our love for God and neighbor. Amen.