Blessed Are We

Sun., November 17

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

“Before all this 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. It will lead to your giving testimony … 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.” (Luke 21:12-13, 17-19)

These words make sense to me these days. There is no doubt that Catholics are being persecuted.

I have seen it. I have heard it. I have read it. And in some small ways, I have experienced it.

In a world that seems to worship the god of political correctness, I find it interesting that it is OK to discriminate against some groups but not others. Right now it is the “in” thing to hate Christians. But it is not the first time for such a persecution and it won’t be the last. I really do not fret much about it any more.

I think of the Beatitudes – Blessed are you who are insulted because of me (Matthew 5:11).

I think of the gospel passage about Jesus dividing mother and daughter, etc. (Luke 12:52-53).

I think of Jesus telling us he came to set the earth on fire (Luke 12:49).

And I read today’s gospel.

And I know, by the grace of God, I will persevere.

My husband and I have a picture of Jesus hanging on our living room wall with these words that we quote often:

“I never said it would be easy. I only said it would be worth it.”

Amen.

Dear Lord, I pray that you give me the grace to persevere and help me to love those who do not understand and only want to attack the Church and my faith. Amen.

Tagged as: Sunday Gospels