We ought not to dissemble our convictions, nor hide our faith from those who seem desirous of information and instruction. Christian charity, and the love of our neighbour, should make us ready to satisfy every one that asketh you a reason of that hope which is in you, but with modesty and fear. But Christian wisdom and discretion will keep us on our guard as to those who only enquire to abuse or contradict, making a mockery of sacred things. Give not what is holy to the dogs (said our Lord to his disciples) neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest perhaps they trample them under their feet, and turning upon you, they tear you. Charity and prudence, zeal and discretion, are graces that have each their separate claims and duties, and which need not clash. Malignant and profane,and thoughtless gainsayers of religion, sometimes demand such a severe reproof, as our Lord gave the Pharisees, when He said, why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? So Saint Paul reproved Elymas. But for such poor fallible creatures as we are, the forbearance of silence, will as a general rule be our safest course when among those gainsayers and mockers, who seek occasion against Christ and His gospel. He that rules his spirit (Solomon says) is better than he that takes cities, and there is a time to keep silence and a time to speak.
- text taken from Daily Bread - Bring a Few Morning Meditations for the Use of Catholic Christians by Father Richard Waldo Sibthorp