"DO YOU RENOUNCE SATAN?"

Some people accused Jesus of driving out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons. We may have sinned many times, but that's one sin we likely have never committed. In our secularized society, many don't even believe the devil exists. Consequently, they would not attribute any of Jesus' works to the devil. Many are too ignorant or heretical to commit the sin referred to in today's Gospel reading.

In a few short weeks, at every Catholic Mass in the whole world on Easter Sunday, we will be asked the question: "Do you renounce Satan?" Those who are so secularized as to deny or doubt the devil's existence or activity will not be able to answer that question. Even those who acknowledge the devil's existence may be hard pressed to renounce Satan, all his works, and all his empty promises. When we are aware that Satan exists, we probably know that he is aware of our renouncing him. Many, and Satan especially, react to renunciation with retaliation. Therefore, we must be protected before "picking a fight" with Satan by renouncing him. We must repent of our sins and commit ourselves totally to Jesus. Then we are under Jesus' protection and can renounce Satan. Prepare to renounce Satan.