Today’s Gospel reading reveals how Jesus purified the temple and gave hard words of correction to the Jewish leaders. As opposed to hearing His words and repenting, they sought to put Him to death. May we heed the words of the Lord and continuously give Him thanks before the sacrifice of the Mass and through service to our neighbor.

The saints we honor today experienced this same kind of hostility Jesus did from the Jewish leaders as they spread the Gospel in Vietnam. Saint Andrew Dung-Lac and his companions were willing to suffer death rather than renounce their faith, stating, “I will never cease to proclaim the name of Jesus and to teach the faith, even if it costs my life.” Saint Andrew Dung-Lac’s bold words were fulfilled by the sacrifice of his own life. In 1835, an imperial edict ordered all Christians to trample on a crucifix to renounce their faith. Saint Andrew and his 116 companions refused to do it and were martyred.

Stepping on the crucifix was something these holy saints would not do, even at the cost of their own lives. It was not only the physical crucifix itself that they held in such high regard, of course, but what it represented—love for Christ and His Church. As we gaze upon the crucifix in our churches or homes, let us recall these heroic saints. And let us also recall that these Vietnamese martyrs supported each other during their persecution. They gathered as an underground church in people’s homes and outdoors in forests and caves. They gave their lives to protect each other, defend their priests, and teach the Catholic faith. 

May we draw strength and inspiration from Saint Andrew Dung Lac’s words during his time of suffering: “I forgive those who are persecuting me. I pray for them.” By standing for what is right, supporting our recovery community, and forgiving those who have hurt us, we too can find the path to true holiness.

Reflection Questions

• How can you help your brothers and sisters in recovery who are struggling for sobriety? What steps can you take today to do so?
• What helps you remember the greatness of our Catholic faith? How do the holy lives of martyrs like Saint Andrew Dung-Lac inspire you in your recovery and faith journey?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 Maccabees 4:36-37, 52-59
Responsorial Psalm: 1 Chronicles 29:10bcd, 11abc, 11d-12a, 12bcd
Gospel: Luke 19:45-48

Reflection by Bill B.