Are You a Fool for Christ?

For the second year in a row, I have contributed a reflection to the Every Sacred Sunday series. Welcome to my new subscribers who found me through that platform!

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Here’s a link to today’s readings if you’ve already forgotten them or were wrangling kids during Mass. (been there)

Today’s readings recount two very different instances of the apostles being “fools for Christ”—breaking societal norms to radically live out their faith.

The first instance is rather serious: the apostles are called before the Sanhedrin and reprimanded for proclaiming the good news of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection in the face of Jewish authority.

We know the end of this story and that most of these apostles would soon be martyred for their faith. But their “foolishness” in disobeying religious and civic authorities to spread the Gospel was the fulfillment of their mission from Jesus and secured their place in Heaven—along with countless new Christians who converted from their witness.

The second instance of “foolishness” is a bit sillier. In a post-resurrection appearance, Simon Peter recognizes Christ on the shore, “tucks in his garment,” and excitedly jumps fully clothed into the sea to wade back and greet him. You can imagine the looks and comments of bystanders who witnessed this incident. You can even imagine what you would be thinking if you saw someone acting that way.

Reading these accounts begs a simple question: How far are you willing to go to be a witness for Christ? While you probably won’t be called to publicly give your life for professing the Gospel, there are other things that can be martyred for your faith. Will you pray before meals in public and martyr the opinions of strangers? Will you tell your non-religious coworkers that you attended Mass over the weekend, outing yourself as a faithful Catholic? Will you martyr relationships with people who lead you into sin? Will you invite a friend to join you at Mass or a Bible study?

As we continue to celebrate the joy of Easter, it’s time for a gut check. Are we willing to get as wet as Peter to live loudly as a Christian in an increasingly secular society? As St. Paul wrote to the Corinthians, “If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become ‘fools’ so that you may become wise. For the wisdom of the world is foolishness in God’s sight.”

It’s time to tuck in your garment and jump in. The water is warm and Christ is waiting on the shore—for you and the ones you bring with you.