THE JOHN THE BAPTIST AWARD

“[John] made his public appearance in Israel.” –Luke 1:80

At a recent Mass, the priest revealed his dream during the homily. He wants to see an annual award, called the St. John the Baptist Courage Award. He envisioned that it would be awarded to that Catholic bishop who has most courageously spoken out for the cause of pro-life. The “trophy” would be a silver platter, symbolizing both the courage St. John the Baptist displayed in continuously speaking out against Herod’s public adultery (Mk 6:18) and his resulting imprisonment and execution (Mk 6:28).

Such an award would be yet another encouragement for all of us, in every walk of life, to speak out against injustice and speak up for the Lord. God tells us: “Whatever I command you, you shall speak…Stand up and tell them all that I command you” (Jer 1:7, 17). “Do not be afraid. Go on speaking and do not be silenced, for I am with you,” says the Lord (Acts 18:9-10).

Is the Lord calling one of you to make this dream a reality?

PRAYER: Father, teach me “what to say and how to speak” (Jn 12:49).
PROMISE: “It was to us that this message of salvation was sent forth.” –Acts 13:26
PRAISE: Praise You, all-loving Father, risen Jesus, and consuming Holy Spirit. I worship You with every fiber of my being. Alleluia!