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).

Welcome to a new podcast, "Divine Mercy Calls to Our Hearts," hosted by Fr. Mark Baron, MIC, and acclaimed author Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle.

In today’s Gospel (Luke 12:39–48), Jesus calls us to vigilance—to be faithful stewards who live every moment ready for the coming of the Lord. “Much will be required of the person entrusted with much,” He says. That same spirit of responsibility and readiness defined one of the greatest saints of our time: St. John Paul II.