Saint Justin, Martyr Monday of week 9 in Ordinary Time Gospel: Mark 12:1-12In today’s Gospel (Mark 12:1–12), Jesus tells the parable of the tenants who reject and kill the servants and finally the beloved son sent by the owner of the vineyard. The rejection of the son does not change who he truly is. He remains the beloved son regardless of whether he is accepted or rejected by others. This reveals a profound spiritual truth: our identity is not determined by human approval, recognition, or acceptance, but by who we truly are before God. The world often tempts us to measure our worth through success, popularity, influence, or validation from others, yet these things are fragile and changing. Jesus Himself was rejected, misunderstood, and condemned, but His identity as the Son of the Father remained untouched. On the memorial of Saint Justin, who remained faithful to Christ even unto martyrdom, we are reminded that truth and identity are not built upon public acceptance. Saint Justin did not abandon Christ to gain approval from society because he knew who he belonged to. The Gospel invites us to live with inner freedom, rooted not in the opinions of others but in the truth of our relationship with God. Only when we know who we are in Him can we remain faithful even when misunderstood, rejected, or alone. Let’s reflect: Am I allowing my identity and worth to depend on the acceptance of others, or am I rooted in the truth of who I am before God, remaining faithful even when misunderstood or rejected?
Don Giorgio