Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“This will be a time for you to bear testimony.” Today’s Gospel reading (Luke 21:12-19) is a continuation of the reading from yesterday. The Gospel tells us what will happen if we standup for our faith. Jesus tells us, “they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name's sake.” Is this not still true today? Do we not see people still be persecuted for their belief in God and for following Christ? Have you ever heard someone called a “Jesus Freak.” Just try inserted Jesus into a conversation and see if it does not yield a silent pause for the other participants. Have you ever been accused of being too religious? Many of us withdraw and subdue our religious beliefs and convictions so we do not get labeled or ridiculed. Jesus says not to worry “for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict.” In other words, Jesus is telling us to stand tall for our beliefs because he will being standing right there with us to protect us. Jesus is calling us to be martyrs for our faith. What’s interesting is that Jesus says that you will be delivered to the synagogues and the prisons. Therefore, you will be persecuted not only by society in general, but also by people who go to church with you. He says, “You will be delivered up even by parents and brothers and kinsmen and friends, and some of you they will put to death; you will be hated by all for my name's sake.” This passage gives testimony to the depth of faith Christ is calling us to have. We must be willing to put it all on the line for him. We must be willing to carry big signs that say, “I am a Christian and I believe in God.” You should not hide your faith but display it for all to see. You should scream Christ when you walk down the street. And most importantly, you should have confidence in your beliefs. We are called to be living witnesses for the good news and joy presented in the Gospels. Do not be afraid of your faith. It’s ok to be a Jesus Freak.

Yours in Christ

Lord Father in heaven, I am your soldier;

Defender of the faith, martyr for the gospels.

Give me strength to bear witness to the Good News

Give me strength to withstand those who will judge me

For your name’s sake, for I am your loyal servant.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon