Memorial of Saint Agatha, Virgin and Martyr
How fitting are the readings today for the memorial of St. Agatha, one of the most well-known names of christian martyrdom in the early church? Agatha was deeply devoted to Christ and held fast to her faith in the face of threats, imprisonment, torture, and death. She embodied words in our psalm: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The Lord is my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid?” (Ps 27:1) Following her torture, her story states that she went to prison ‘radiant with joy and with head held high as though invited to a festive banquet. And she commended her agony to the Lord in prayer.’ Similarly, today we read, “The Lord is my helper, and I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?” (Heb 13:6) With the trauma of a global pandemic, racial and political violence, and all of the struggles surrounding us, our readings today call on us to follow St. Agatha’s model and turn to Christ in our fears; offer our sufferings to the Lord; look to God for strength.
How much of the violence and hatred we see in the world and in our own lives is rooted in fear? In the gospel, we see fear played out in the beheading of John the Baptist. Herod respected him as a holy and righteous man, but what he feared even more was losing his power and stature. He was willing to do whatever was necessary to hold onto that power; even if it distressed him to behead John, the fear of embarrassment of going back on his promise in front of his guests won out. What are we most afraid of? Deep down, are we afraid of being hurt, being rejected, being alone, losing power or privilege? How would our lives change if we were not afraid? Fear hinders our ability to live out our call to discipleship. It keeps us from using God’s gifts as thoroughly and joyfully as was intended. Fear leads us on a path to sin and destruction. Instead, let us free ourselves of our fears by firmly rooting ourselves in Christ.
Let us respond to fear with the love and fervor of St. Agatha. Lord, help us to recognize the fear we carry in our hearts and commend it to you. Fill our hearts with your love that we may more fully love ourselves, our brothers and sisters, and you. Amen.
Blessings,
Brandon Meyer