Homily for the Optional Memorial of Our Lady of Fatima

What a contrast to the previous reception of the Apostles in the areas surrounding Jerusalem, which we read about in today's passage from the Acts of the Apostles. Despite being fearful for their lives, especially after Stephen's death, they were actively spreading the Good News. Despite the threats against those who converted to Christianity, the Apostles won many over.

What drove their actions was a deep sense of joy and commitment. Despite the dangers, they proved their dedication by risking their lives to share the Good News of Jesus; their faith in Him radiated joy. This joy was so evident and powerful that many people they preached to couldn't help but joyfully and wholeheartedly embrace faith in Jesus Christ.

As we know, all of us are called to share the Good News of our salvation in Jesus. Do we do this with a sense of joy or fear? Do we approach it with an understanding of the freedom of God's children or a feeling of obligation? Are we guided by the letter of the law, or do we embody the spirit that embraces Jesus' commandments to love God above all things and our neighbor as ourselves? Do we act with a sense of judgment or the mercy and compassion Jesus showed when he ate with sinners?

Let us aim for a commitment and joy to draw others to our faith. May we be beacons of light in the darkness, just as the Apostles were in their time.