The Coming Persecution

Today's Reflections

The Coming Persecution

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Lk 21:12-19

[Jesus said to his disciples,] ¹²“Before [the end] happens, however, 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. ¹³It will lead to your giving testimony. ¹⁴Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, ¹⁵for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. ¹⁶You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. ¹⁷You will be hated by all because of my name, ¹⁸but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. ¹⁹By your perseverance you will secure your lives.

Reflection:

Persecute. Opposition is not alien to the Christian vocation. People will oppose violently what threatens their existence and their way of life. Christianity is no exception. It puts forth the rule of God and goodness against all evil forces. Persecution, since time immemorial, has been unleashed against Christians, as Christ himself was crucified for advocating the truth about God, about himself.

Anyone who follows Jesus follows the same path of persecution. A true follower is ready to undergo what Jesus experienced. Yes, we will suffer for Jesus. But there are assurances from Jesus that in the end the good will triumph. Even if we will be sent and scattered, like bread we will be shared and finally be saved. In spite of sacrifices, let us put then our hope in God. God will be with us. He will assist us. Let us remember that if persecutions are in store for the followers of Christ, divine protection and assistance are also assured.

Do you know the subtle seduction of the world

that is stronger and more subtle than open,

violent persecution of the faith?