Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 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.”
Give testimony!
1. Persecution. I believe you already know, but let it be clear that being a Christian means you must fight for what you believe and face tough moments that may even make you feel like a fool. This happens sometimes on social media, when others try to make you feel ridiculous. To live a life with Christ may lead you to face challenging situations even with your nearest and dearest, as people will question your faith. Do not fear, God is with you.
2. Wisdom. It’s important not to neglect your prayer, your conversations with Jesus. In prayer, you begin to build your knowledge and a close relationship with God, and this will allow you to find the answers or the ways to tackle what you must face. It’s through prayer that your soul is strengthened, and you can grow. Don’t stop praying in difficult times – that’s when you need prayers the most.
3. Constancy. Remember that being a Christian is a day-to-day endeavor, where you must strive and learn every day. Don’t falter because God is always with you and there’s a community that accompanies you as well. Do not quit before time is up, the battle can still be won. Don’t give up, you know well the end is resurrection.
Always remember that something good is on the way! God bless you, be with you and protect you in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
