22 November 2023
It happened also that seven brothers and their mother were arrested and were being compelled by the king, under torture with whips and thongs, to partake of unlawful swine’s flesh.
From 2 Maccabees 7:1,20-31, NRSV
In the second century, King Antiochus IV outlawed the worship and customs of the Jews. By so doing, he hoped to bring about the unity of his Empire. However, he met with more opposition than expected, and today’s reading tells of one incident that took place during this time of persecution. The resistance of these seven brothers and their mother to being forced to eat pig’s meat shows the strength of their faith and the lengths to which they would go to uphold the Law.
- What impact do you suppose this family’s resistance made on their persecutors?
- What gives you strength in the face of opposition to your faith?
Give thanks for all whose sacrifices have preserved our faith and pray for those who face religious persecution today.
