Indifference

   “The most deadly poison of our times is Indifference.  And this happens, although the praise of God should know no limits.  Let us strive, therefore, to praise Him to the greatest extent of our powers.” (St. Maximilian Kolbe)

   St. Maximilian gave up his life in Auschwitz.  He offered his life in place of a fellow prisoner condemned to death by starvation.  The man had a family; St. Kolbe chose death in hopes that they might be reunited.

   Apathy toward others contributed greatly to the death of over 17 million people in the Nazi death camps.  Many think the Jews were the only ones affected but about 11 million others were killed.  Jehovah’s Witnesses, Catholics, and some Protestants suffered.  Slavs, Poles, and Ukrainians died in those camps.  The disabled were rounded up and sent to the camps for euthanasia.  Homosexuals were included in those who were deemed not worthy of life.

   Indifference and apathy are just as prevalent today as in the time of St. Maximilian.  Far too many turn a blind eye to those who are marginalized and persecuted.  In many places Christianity is under attack.  In this country the persecution of Christians is on the rise.  God is being pushed out the public square.  Far too few are willing take a stand against this injustice.  I fear that it will become just as it was in Nazi Germany with no one caring until it is too late.  How many will have suffered because of the apathy?

   Until we, as Christians, are willing to take a stand and demand our right to worship as guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution the persecution will continue and get worse.  We must reject the idea that we must leave our faith at home or in the church.  We must publicly demonstrate our belief in God even it means that we too may suffer persecution.

   If we don't, how will we answer Jesus when He asks why we refused to take a stand for His people and for Him?

Lord strengthen us to stand for You.

Give us the courage to live our faith in public.

Help us defeat the enemies sent by Satan.

To be always faithful to You.

Amen