The readings today certainly fit those whom we remember in our celebration: Sts. Denis and companion martyrs. They lived in the 3rd century – when to be a Christian was a very costly thing at times. The persecution of the Christians was continuing by the Roman Empire and the royal foundation of the Church was being formed in a big way by the blood of the martyrs.
St. Denis (or Dionysius) was sent to Gaul (France) from Rome – and he became the first bishop of what later became Paris. During a persecution – he and two other bishops suffered greatly and were killed in a brutal fashion. He thus became not only the first Apostle to France, but also its first martyr.
On the spot where he was martyred a chapel and later an abbey was built and dedicated in his name.
The first reading today tells of the difficulties that a minister of God would face, but also of the consolations that would come from God if the minister would endure and always try to see the opposite side of the coin: that in everything negative that was happening – the positive was that God was being proclaimed, magnified and glorified – and that the fruit of the labor would endure far beyond the present time!
Those who sowed in tears would truly reap rejoicing one day!
In the gospel passage Jesus reminds the apostles, disciples and following community-at-large to be with him the Light of the World! He came to be that light and to enlighten others – so that the darkness of the world could be overcome! We, therefore, must accept our responsibility and live up to the mandate we were given at our baptism: to carry the lighted candle of faith, hope and charity to a waiting world. We can make a difference – and through our good deeds God the Father can be glorified.
We thank St. Denis, his companion martyrs and all martyrs this day for being blazing flames in the annals of Church history! –May we rekindle our own lights this day – through their intercession – and by the merits of the very Eucharist we celebrate at this altar!
Those who sow in tears shall reap rejoicing!
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