Friday 9 July

Augustine Zhao Rong and Companions, martyrs (OM)

Genesis 46:1-7,28-30, Psalm 37,
Matthew 10:16-23

Gentle courage for Christ

Augustine Zhao Rong was a Chinese soldier who escorted Bishop Dufresses to his execution. Moved by the bishop’s patience, he asked for baptism, was later ordained, tortured and executed for his faith in 1815. 119 martyrs in China (1648 – 1930) are also remembered today. Living for God carries the risk of persecution but creates opportunities to share God’s love by how we live and even how we die. Jesus warns that rejection may come but we should not give in to fear nor take retribution. We are called to be gentle, yet courageous, ambassadors of Christ.