Daily Reflections - April 11,2013

THE EXAMPLE OF ST. STANISLAUS

 

One of the highlights of our pilgrimage to Eastern Europe was a visit to Krakow’s Cathedral, where Blessed John Paul II was bishop before he was elected Pope. In this old cathedral, we paused in prayer before the tomb of the saint the Church honors today, St. Stanislaus, the 11th century saintly but tragic bishop of this city.

St. Stanislaus was saintly because his eloquence and example brought about many conversions, both in clergy and laity. He was tragic because he opposed the evils of an unjust government and, like John the Baptist, rebuked the immorality of the unfaithful King Boleslaus II. When his rebukes remained fruitless, Stanislaus excommunicated the king. Enraged,the king killed the bishop as he was celebrating Mass on April 13, 1079.

We honor today a man who was a real prophet, who dared to denounce the evil and corruption in the highest places, risking his life for the sake of truth and morality. Such heroism is rare because of the high cost. But the Church would be better off if more of her members would have the courage to stand up for moral values taught by Christ. The lack of such courageous prophets weakens the Church.

This reminds us that all of us who were baptized into Christ participate in His royal, priestly and prophetic role. Each one of us is called to defend our faith and counteract evil trends and corruption in our society. We received the Holy Spirit precisely for this prophetic task.

Our task is not easy. Who wants to go against the trends in society? Who wants to be different? Who wants to be ridiculed and even ostracized? But this is what Christ expects from us. And we can begin with it in our family, in the education and guidance of our children, especially the teenagers. We can fulfill our prophetic task in the workplace, not necessarily by preaching, but by giving a silent example of honesty, truthfulness and kindness. May the example and prayer of St. Stanislaus help us. Fr. Rudy Horst, SVD

 

REFLECTION QUESTION: Where and when do you have an opportunity to give witness but are afraid of the consequences?

 

Lord, when I read about martyrs I feel so ashamed. I am a coward when it comes to being a witness for the truth and for my faith. Strengthen me, Lord, and make me more courageous!