THE PERSECUTED CHURCH ENDURES PERSECUTION FOR THE SAKE OF CHRIST

Friday, January 27, 2023

ST ANGELA MERICI, V. (Opt. Mem.)

First Reading. Hebrews 10: 32-39
Psalm. 37: 3-6, 23-24, 39-40 (R. 39a)
Gospel.  Mark 4: 26-34

TOPIC FOR REFLECTION

ENDURING TRIBULATIONS FOR THE SAKE OF CHRIST.

My dear, being a Christian is a cross of its own.

The first reading today from the letter to the Hebrews stated clearly what the Christians undergo for the sake of Christ.

The author reminded us to recall the former days when, after we were enlightened from our dark ignorance, especially our conversion to Christianity; we endured a hard struggle with suffering, sometimes being publicly exposed to abuse and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those who are treated badly, just as Christians are undergoing persecutions in some notable countries like Nigeria. In such countries, the life of Christians is constantly in danger, especially the Catholic priests.

However, despite all of these, we do have compassion for the prisoners, and we joyfully accepted the plundering of our property. So, since we know that we have better possession in heaven.
Therefore we should not throw away our confidence in Him whom we look up to, Jesus Christ, who is our great reward.

Therefore, we need endurance, so that we may do the will of God and receive what He has promised us.

Remember, for a little while, and the coming one, Jesus Christ, shall come and shall not delay; but it is only the righteous one who shall live by faith, but if he falls back, the Lord will not have pleasure in him/her.

Although, we are not of those who fall back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and keep their souls waiting for the coming of Jesus.

Similarly, the Gospel says the kingdom of heaven is gained not by anybody's effort but by the grace of Him from above who is God.
More reason for the summary of His parable was if a farmer plants a seed, he goes to sleep, only to come back the next day to see it growing.

So, the little good deeds we perform, our endurance, and faithfulness can win us the kingdom of heaven.

Peace ✌️ be with you

Rev. Fr. Segun Oladeji, CRS.

Comments

Unknown said…
And with your Spirit
January 27, 2023 at 5:08 AM
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