Keep doing good always

January 21, St. Agnes, virgin, and martyr
Daily Readings: Hebrews 9:2-3, 11-14 Gospel: Mark 3:20-21

Jesus' family thought he was out of his mind since they didn't understand Him. His choices were absurd, and they worried about him. Jesus proved that He was obeying God's will. It's true. This message should inspire us to spread the good news. As long as we feel we're right, we should keep doing good no matter what others say.

St. Agnes is one of the examples of doing good, even giving up her life for Jesus. Today, the Church honors Saint Agnes, the virgin and martyr. Saint Agnes, at thirteen, chose martyrdom rather than forsake her love for Jesus and be unfaithful. An exceptional encounter with Christ at a particular time in her life provided the impetus for her choice.

Saint Agnes is regarded as one of the world's most amazing women for her quest to make herself completely available to Christ while placing herself in second place. Saint Jerome said as a result of this witness, "'All nations celebrate her example of faith and petition her."

Christ asks us to do the same surrender to give our life. Working for Christ doesn't spare us everyday difficulties or life's problems. Saint Agnes knew this and replied with death to her torturer. Her martyrdom reflects Christ's sacrifice for our redemption.

St. Agnes is often recognized as the patron saint of young girls. She is also the patron saint of chastity, rape survivors, and the Children of Mary. She is often depicted with a lamb, a sign of her virginal purity. She is shown as a young woman wearing robes and carrying a palm frond, with the lamb at her feet or in her arms.

Jesus was not wavered from doing God’s will, although his family and friends did not understand Him. St. Agnes was also faithful to Jesus and ready to give up her life. We, the Christians, also should always do good, neglecting others’ bad comments and the price for doing good.