20261017 Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr

[그리움하나]

(Eph 1:15–23; Lk 12:8–12): Prioritize a Pure Purpose

Dear brothers and sisters, today we commemorate the holy life of Saint Ignatius, Bishop and Martyr. Native to Antioch in Syria, he was a disciple of John the Apostle and succeeded Saint Peter as the second bishop of that city. Through his letters—filled with wise and profound reflections on Christ, the organization of the early Church, and Christian living—he passionately awakened the faith of many, ultimately gaining the crown of martyrdom when he was condemned to be thrown to wild beasts.

Whenever we trace the pure footsteps of the saints, who demonstrated true faith in the Lord’s deep love, their lives lead us to humbly reflect upon our own: With what priorities are we filling our lives to make them truly worthwhile? When we place our ultimate priority on our purpose, it naturally possesses the power to purify the very journey that leads us there.

In Ephesians 1:23, Saint Paul confesses that the Church “is his body, the fullness of the one who fills all things in every way.” These words remind us that the true meaning of the Church—the practical yet ultimate direction of our community—does not lie in metrics of external growth or earthly glory, but in a spiritual life itself that is filled with Christ. Just as the proclamation of the Gospel becomes pure when we fully embrace the joy of poverty, the light emanating from a community filled with spiritual love will gain vitality as a living Gospel that offers hope to all. The life of one who lives captivated by the Lord will truly become a source of comfort, support, and refuge.

Observing the spiritual climate within both the Church and the world, we often sense a tendency to rush after human capabilities, the maintenance of worldly relationships, the management of benefactors, or the speed of continuous development and change. However, what matters most is a life that cherishes the glory of God—who accomplishes all these things—and a humble heart that continually offers Him thanks.

As it is written earlier in verse 19, “and what is the surpassing greatness of his power for us who believe, in accord with the exercise of his great might,” let us strive not to promote ourselves, but rather to become transparent fingers pointing to God, testifying to His divine presence. Let us also treasure deeply in our souls what the Lord tells us in Luke 12:8: “I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before others the Son of Man will acknowledge before the angels of God.”

In the Letter to the Romans by Saint Ignatius of Antioch, we find this profound passage:

“All the pleasures of the world, and all the kingdoms of this earth, shall profit me nothing. It is better for me to die in behalf of Jesus Christ, than to reign over all the ends of the earth… Do not throw to the world one who desires to belong to God. Permit me to receive the pure light… He who has God within himself will understand what I desire, and will have compassion on me, knowing what forces constrain me.”

Dear brothers and sisters, as we place the top priority of our souls on God, let us pray together today:

“God, my love and my master, I offer everything to You. All that I have comes from You—graces received freely and abundantly. Without seeking anything in return, I give it all back to You. Amen.”