Endurance
Tough times are coming.
‘See, I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of them, for they will hand you over to councils and flog you in their synagogues; and you will be dragged before governors and kings because of me, as a testimony to them and the Gentiles. When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given to you at that time; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death; and you will be hated by all because of my name. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. - Matthew 10:16-22
In today's Gospel reading, Jesus warns his disciples that they will see tough times because of him.
It is a warning for all of us. We will have to endure difficulties in life, but we should not worry about how to deal with them, because we have the help of the Holy Spirit.
It is reassuring to know we have help when we need it most, but the idea of enduring suffering for our faith is hard to take.
I used to think that the days of persecution for beliefs were long ago, and that we have a much more progressive view today, but there are still places and people who have these views.
This is why Jesus taught us to pray to our Father in heaven. He wants us to always seek His help in avoiding temptations and staying clear of evil.
For if we should find ourselves in the midst of trouble, we need to remember that we are not alone.
The Spirit is our strength and power.
More to come...