Accountability

Reflection Date: February 06, 2026 Friday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time
Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs
Daily Readings: Sirach 47:2-11; Mark 6:14-29

Children of God: Saint Paul Miki was a Japanese Jesuit seminarian, not yet ordained, when he was arrested for preaching the Christian faith. 

He was known for his eloquence and deep knowledge of Scripture, which made his preaching effective even among the educated. 

Along with twenty-five companions, he was forced to march hundreds of kilometers from Kyoto to Nagasaki. Some of his companions were missionaries, others were laymen, catechists, and even young boys. During the journey, they were mocked and publicly humiliated. 

Despite this, they continued to pray and encourage one another. On February 5, 1597, they were crucified on a hill overlooking Nagasaki. 

From the cross, Paul Miki preached forgiveness to his executioners. He proclaimed that he died for Christ and held no hatred in his heart. 

Their martyrdom marked one of the darkest yet most faithful chapters in the history of the Church in Asia.

In the gospel story of Mark, another truth-teller meets a violent end. 

John the Baptist is imprisoned and eventually executed because his words disturb the conscience of those in power. In this seemingly not so good scenario, what inspirations can we draw? 

First, truth becomes dangerous when power refuses accountability.

Herod hears about Jesus and is haunted by the memory of John the Baptist, whom he had executed (Mark 6:16). John had confronted Herod about his unlawful marriage, speaking truth without compromise (Mark 6:18). 

The problem? His refusal to change.

Herod is portrayed as conflicted, even intrigued by John, yet not willing to act justly (Mark 6:20). His fear of losing face before guests becomes stronger than his fear of doing wrong. 

Power without conscience is deadly.

Saint Paul Miki and his companions faced a similar reality. Authorities feared the spread of faith more than injustice. When power protects itself instead of truth, violence follows.

Second, faithfulness to God may cost life, but it never loses meaning.

John the Baptist’s death is senseless from a political perspective, ordered because of a reckless oath and wounded pride (Mark 6:26-28). 

Yet his witness does not end with death. His life continues to point toward Christ.

Saint Paul Miki’s final sermon from the cross echoes this truth. He forgave, proclaimed Christ, and died with peace. 

Children of God: John the Baptist reminds us that conscience must not be negotiated. Silence may protect comfort, but it destroys integrity. 

God’s kingdom is built on witness, not fear. Choose truth even when it is costly.