In today’s homily, Fr. Mark Baron reflects on the harrowing story from 2 Maccabees: a mother witnessing the martyrdom of her seven sons for refusing to abandon God’s law. As Fr. Mark highlights, the woman’s courage was rooted in hope—hope in God’s providence, mercy, and the promise of eternal life. This hope allowed her to endure unimaginable suffering, guiding her sons to remain steadfast, even in the face of death (2 Maccabees 7:1–31).

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010826.cfm Father Chris Alar, MIC reminds us that God’s timing is never accidental. Though the Jubilee Year of Hope formally concluded on January 6, its message—and its grace—did not end. Rooted in Leviticus 25 and proclaimed anew by Isaiah, the Jubilee was always meant to announce freedom, restoration, and mercy. But as Father Chris explains, this freedom is not political or economic. It is spiritual.

In this powerful reflection, Fr. Mark Baron, MIC, explores the reality of spiritual warfare through St. Paul’s teaching in Ephesians 6:10–18.