A WORD FOR TODAY 31 JULY 2021

*A WORD FOR TODAY

*SPEAK THE TRUTH AT ALL TIMES

_Herod the tetrarch heard about the fame of Jesus; and he said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist, ' he has been raised from the dead; that is why these powers are at work in him.”  For Herod had seized John and bound him and put him in prison, for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife; because John said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.”(Matthew 14:1-4)_

_In the gospel reading of today, we see an account of the beheading of St. John the Baptist by Herod, a great crime and injustice that followed John's proclamation of the truth that it was unlawful for him to take his brother's wife. We see Herod confused and afraid, even mistaking Jesus for John the Baptist whom he had beheaded. The truth can be avoided but it can never be destroyed nor silenced._

_*Speaking the truth comes at a price. People may appreciate us for it, others may detest us for it, but whatever the outcome, when the occasion demands it, my dear friends, stay on the side of truth, and speak the truth at all times.*_

_We must constantly ask God for the courage and fortitude to persevere in speaking the truth at all times. Whether you are at home or in school, speak the truth at all times; whether at work or in a public place, stand on the side of truth. Do not easily compromise because of fear or favour, and allow the truth be present in your own life also._

_*Today we celebrate the memorial of St. Ignatius of Loyola, who founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). He was born in 1491, and after being wounded in battle as a soldier, he turned to Christ during his convalescence. In St. Ignatius, we see one who did not hesitate to be converted when he came in contact with the truth about Christ and of right religion, he became a changed man as well as a priest. St. Ignatius died in Rome in 1556. The Spiritual Exercises, written based on his lived experience is still very handy for us today. We must learn from St. Ignatius to be attentive to the truth at all times.*_

_Good morning dearest one, I hope you slept well. May this weekend bring you joy and peace. Remember to begin your day with God as your focus, he is with you and nothing would shake you. Be optimistic, smile ☺ as you go about your activities and spread the truth about Christ's love for us everywhere you go, doing so by your life and actions. Amen. *And may the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen*_

*Meditation:* Leviticus 25:1.8-17/Ps 67:2-3.5.7-8  /Matthew14:1-12.

*Watch-Word:* Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

*Jesus has promised that the truth will set us free. Do not be afraid of ashamed to speak the truth always.*

(Saturday of the 17th week in ordinary time. Year 1. Memorial of St. Ignatius of Loyola)