October 19. Standing up for God.  In 2015 here in South Africa our first martyr was recognised and beatified.  Benedict Daswa, a family man and teacher, was proud to be a Christian  and speak up for Christian values in public. He rejected the use of witchcraft and was killed by fellow villagers.  Such courage will win us favour in Gods sight.  There is much persecution of Christians in the world today.  Some people are afraid to speak up for him in public: they can be forgiven because the danger can be real.   At the same time people should recognize the Spirit of God active in the world slowly leading us closer to God and filling us with joy. 

Reflect, share, act. Scripture:  The Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say. Luke 12: 8-12. Pope Francis:  The gospel radiant with the glory of Christ’s cross, constantly invites us to rejoice. Even amid persecution the disciples continued to be filled with joy. Why should we not also enter into this great stream of joy.  EG 5.   The call and the demands of the Spirit resound in the events of history and through these the Church can also be guided to a more profound understanding of the inexhaustible mystery of marriage and the family.   AL31.  Action and Prayer.  Share some thoughts on Bl Benedict Daswa with the family. Pray: Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in us the fire of your love, so that walking together we may renew the face of the earth.