Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr
Luke 12:1-7
Being truthful to God, others and ourselves

In today’s Gospel, Jesus warns his disciples: “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” Hypocrisy is pretending to be what we are not, putting on a mask of goodness while our hearts remain far from God. Sadly, even in the Church, this danger exists. Sometimes envy, pride, or hunger for power take root, even among those who claim to serve God. We must be vigilant—not only against the hypocrisy of others, but also against the risk of falling into it ourselves. Let us never use God as a cover to hurt others.

Jesus reminds us that “nothing is hidden that will not be revealed.” God asks us to live with honesty, transparency, and truth. We are not meant to live in secrecy or false appearances. To live in truth is to live in freedom. If you want to be free, learn to speak the truth, live by the truth, and walk in the light of Christ.

Then Jesus reassures us: “Do not be afraid.” Human power is limited—it can harm the body, but never the soul. Our true worth comes from God. Even the sparrows are counted and cared for, and we are worth far more than many sparrows. Too often, humiliation or criticism leads us to feel worthless. But in God’s eyes, you are infinitely valuable. No one is superior to another—we are all beloved children of the same Father.

So today, let us strip away all masks and live sincerely before God. Let us resist fear, trust in the Father’s care, and learn to see ourselves and others with dignity. Perhaps pray a Rosary for someone you have humiliated, or who has humiliated you, asking God to heal your heart with forgiveness.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025