2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 9-24,
Psalm 124: 3-5, 7-8,
Matthew 5:1-12 Full Readings
Dying For Faith
Brethren, today the church celebrates the memorial of the Uganda Martyrs but a feast in Uganda. The Uganda Martyrs are among few African saints who were the first to receive faith in Uganda, got baptised and even died for it under the persecution of Kabaka Mwanga. With their courage and confidence to die for Christ, they planted a seed of faith not only in Uganda but the whole of Africa.
The faith we enjoy today in Uganda is a result of the seed planted by their faith, and indeed we give thanks to them. Tertullian, one of the Christian writers teaches us that the "The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church." (Apologeticus, L. 13). It's not surprising that their death did not threaten the faith of the people but numbers increased until now. This is also what happened in the first Christian community of the Apostles. Whenever one was killed, more thousands would join Christianity.
Brethren, are we prepared to die for our faith? Each one may have his or her answer but let us endeavour to say Yes always. The first reading tells us about the seven brothers who refused to eat the pig's flesh, because of the law of God. However, they didn't just die but had hope in God that he will reward them with eternal life after their death. This is what Uganda Martyrs did and this should be an inspiration for us too in our times.
In our generation being put to death because of faith may not be too common as it was during those days but we also have to stand for our faith in extraordinary circumstances. We can do this first of all by living our Christian faith as it is, following whatever God asks what to do and what the church teaches, and above all being able to respond with conscience and humility to those who confront our faith. With these we can be able to die for our faith and die in our faith.
What should we expect when we die for our faith? The Kingdom of God. Jesus as a greatest teacher, a new Moses, teaches us in the beatitudes what we should do to attain this Kingdom. These beatitudes give us spiritual attitudes necessary for us to enter the kingdom, with emphasis on Righteousness. Whether we are persecuted, or hated or happy, or poor or in any situation we are in we should strive to attain righteousness in order to attain the kingdom of heaven.
Brethren, let the blood of the Uganda Martyrs always water our faith and inspire us to die for our faith and to remain firm in all tribulations. With their intercession may Uganda and the whole of Africa become a deposit of faith and an example to others.
Reflect today on how ready you are to die for your faith and for Jesus. Recognize different ways in your life how you can bear witness to your faith and also inspire others.
Let us Pray.
As we celebrate the victory of your holy Martyrs; may what helped them to endure torment, we pray, make us, in the face of trials, steadfast in faith and in charity. Amen
Happy Uganda Martyrs Day
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