Letters From Home Monday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. Scott Hahn
Nov 17, 2025
Today's reflection dives into the challenging themes of darkness and cultural compromise in faith. Scott Hahn discusses the historical context of the Maccabean Revolt led by Antiochus IV and connects it to modern issues facing believers. He highlights the importance of inner fidelity to Christ while reflecting on the poignant words of Psalm 119. The healing of the blind beggar offers a message of hope, illustrating how faith can illuminate our path amid turmoil. In a world of uncertainty, Hahn encourages us to embrace God’s Word for guidance and strength.
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Ancient Apostasy Mirrors Modern Compromise
- Scott Hahn observes that many Jews in 167–160 BC abandoned the Torah and embraced Gentile customs, creating a deep internal crisis.
- He links that historical apostasy to modern secularization and cultural compromise in Catholic life.
Gymnasia And Covered Circumcision
- Scott Hahn describes gymnasia in Jerusalem where men exercised nude and covered circumcision marks to appear Gentile.
- He uses this concrete image to show how Jews abandoned the covenant visibly and culturally.
When Power Becomes A False God
- Hahn highlights Antiochus calling himself 'Epiphanes' as imperial self-deification and political religion.
- He warns that making rulers the source of law leads to idolatry and persecution of covenant keepers.
