Dear brothers and sisters, the celebration of the martyrdom of St. John the Baptist also reminds us Christians today that it is not possible to compromise with love for Christ, for his word, for the truth. Truth is Truth, there is no compromise. Christian life requires to speak, the “martyrdom” of daily fidelity to the Gospel, and therefore the courage needed to allow Christ to grow in us and to guide our thoughts and actions. This can only happen in our lives when our relationship with God is strong. Prayer is not time wasted, it is not taking time away from action, even an apostolic action, on the contrary: only when we are able to cultivate a life of faithful, constant and trusting prayer, will God give us the ability and strength to live happily and serenely, to overcome difficulties and bear witness to him with courage. Let St. John the Baptist intercedes for us that we may always give priority to God in our lives.
Benedict XVI, general audience, August 29, 2012, Castel Gandolfo
