Wednesday 23 November, 2022

 Gospel: Lk 21:12-19

Jesus said to the crowd:

“They will seize and persecute you,

they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons,

and they will have you led before kings and governors

because of my name.

It will lead to your giving testimony.

Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand,

for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking

that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute.

You will even be handed over by parents,

brothers, relatives, and friends,

and they will put some of you to death.

You will be hated by all because of my name,

but not a hair on your head will be destroyed.

By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

Reflections: 

Witnessing to Jesus can cost a lot. We see in some parts of the world, how being Christian, is treated as a threat to the comfortable living of some categories of people. And this is because of some ulterior or selfish motives of a few fanatical groups. Jesus prepares us for this and assures us of courage and guidance during these trying times. The strength of the faith and a pure Christian lifestyle are what will support our spirits during these kinds of times. The times of testimony may not be very spectacular like the martyrs, but in our day to day lives -- at home, workplace or place of study. May we be able to take up this challenge.