HOW TO CONQUER DEATH (Tuesday, Week 7 of Easter)

“I declare to you this day that I am not responsible for the blood of any of you, for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God.” (Acts 20:26-27)

Today’s first reading is Paul’s farewell speech as he was leaving the region of Asia, and our Gospel passage today is an excerpt from Jesus’ high priestly prayer, which he said just before his arrest and crucifixion. Both readings are set on a tone of departure. Whatever has a beginning must have an end.

It is wise to always keep the end in view. We are not born to live forever on earth. Judgment Day must come. We must all give an account of how we spent our days on earth. As a minister, a father, a mentor, a teacher, etc., can I say like St. Paul that I am innocent of the blood of my congregation, my children, my employees, or those under my care? Can I say that I never led anyone under my care astray?

The thought of death should not frighten us since it is our chance of returning home. However, if we are scared of it, it is either because we are not prepared or we are certain of eternal condemnation – that is, we are yet to start fighting the good fight (against sin, the flesh, injustice and ungodliness) and we are not running the race of righteousness.

Paul was not afraid to die. He said, “You will see my face no more.” At only 33 years old, Jesus prayed: “I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work which you gave me to do… I have manifested your name to the men whom you gave me out of the world…” Jesus died early, but he died a fulfilled person. He finished his assignment on Earth. A fulfilled life is not measured by the number of one’s days but by the quality of those days.

Rather than praying for a long life, let us pray for a life that has a significant impact. Rather than wish death away, let us pray for the grace to accomplish our purpose on earth. Rather than fear death, let us fear sin, whatever would make us unworthy of being with the saints in heaven.

Today, we remember the Ugandan martyrs, including St. Charles Lwanga and his companions. Their story reminds us that Christians still face persecution today. In 1879, the White Fathers arrived in Uganda and quickly gained many devoted converts. These new Christians, including young men and boys, served in King Mwanga’s court, a place known for violence and moral corruption. Joseph Mkasa, a Catholic and the chief steward of the court, led a small Christian community. When Mwanga killed a Protestant missionary, Joseph confronted the king, urging him to change his ways. For this, Joseph was martyred on November 15, 1885. Before his execution, he forgave Mwanga and sought the king’s repentance.

After Joseph’s death, Charles Lwanga took over leadership, continuing to protect the young Christians from Mwanga’s anger. In May 1886, Mwanga discovered that one of his pages, Mwafu, was receiving religious instruction. Enraged, he killed Denis Sebuggwawo, the teacher, and ordered the execution of all Christians in his court. That night, Charles baptised four new members, including a 13-year-old kid named Kizito. The next morning, Mwanga separated the Christians and condemned them to death. The group, consisting of boys and young men under 25, marched 37 miles to Namugongo, displaying remarkable courage and faith along the way.

On June 3, 1886, after a week of imprisonment, the martyrs were burned alive. Thirteen Catholics and eleven Protestants were among those who died, all calling out to Jesus as they were martyred. Their sacrifice inspired the hidden Christian community, which continued to grow despite the lack of priests and sacraments. These 22 Catholic martyrs of Uganda were later canonised. Their bravery and unwavering faith serve as a testament to Christians worldwide who face persecution. May the Ugandan martyrs pray for those suffering for their faith and inspire us to support persecuted Christians everywhere. Amen.

Let us pray: Come, Holy Spirit, fill our hearts, and enkindle in us your Sacred Fire. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saints Charles Lwanga and his Companions, Martyrs. Liturgical Colour: Red. Bible Study: Acts 20:17-27, Ps. 68:10-11,20-21, John 17:1-11).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Скачать видео