Standing On The Shoulders Of The Saints

29 Aug

“If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants.”  ~ Isaac Newton

Today is the Feast of the Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist.  When you examine the faith, we have the example of many great people to inspire us.  They are people who have given their lives in martyrdom, who have eschewed the values of the world in religious life, who have lived valiantly as dedicated singles, and who have inspired many as married people.

Their examples of courage, faith, and trust go a long way in witnessing to us.  They let us know that there are others who have gone before us and who have experienced just what we are experiencing.  They are witnesses of God’s enduring love even in the midst of trial and persecution.

Time and time again, witnesses to Christ have been put to death.  The persecutors figured that others would not want to follow those who were slain lest they end up in the same position.  However, the death of a martyr, no matter how gruesome it might have been, stirs the faith and courage of others and gives rise to new witnesses.  The blood of the martyrs has been called the seed of the Church.

Newton knew that he was able to make the advances that he did because he stood upon the science and theories of those who went before him.  We, too, stand upon the shoulders of giants:  the saints of old.  Don’t let their heroic deeds be in vain.  Follow their example.  Gird yourself.  Fight the good fight.  Know that Christ will be victorious.

FAITH ACTION:  Ask God to grant you the same graces utilized by the great saints of old.