Jeremiah 20:10-13
Romans 5:12-15
Matthew 10:26-33
“FEAR NO ONE !”
Today’s readings speak about the right attitude which a missionary must have in the face of suffering and persecution. According to St Paul in the second reading, God’s grace in Christ Jesus overflows and outweighs human transgressions. In the gospel, Jesus gives instructions to his disciples for the mission entrusted to them. He invites them to have the audacity to proclaim the truth despite everything, because the truth itself is irresistible. He encourages them to overcome their fears and anxieties, and to place their trust in God who watches over every sparrow and protects his own.
The first reading is one of "the confessions of Jeremiah" which express the depth of Jeremiah’s sufferings on account of his prophetic mission. Considered as the prophet of doom, Jeremiah’s proclamation was bitter and disturbing to his contemporaries. He never ceased to say the truth and to denounce their evil ways, calling them to conversion. For this reason, the people and their kings never liked him. They persecuted him, and plotted various evils against him. This notwithstanding, Jeremiah remained faithful, fearless and resilient in his mission. He trusted in God who would not let him down.
The story of the prophet Jeremiah is still relevant today. In our churches, communities, homes and work places, the people who always stand for the truth and justice are often victims of hatred and slander, unjustified criticisms and unfounded accusations, persecutions and other evil machinations. But this should not be the ground for fear or discouragement. If we trust in God and remain faithful doing good and bearing witness to the truth, a great reward awaits us in heaven. Thus, we should never compromise the gospel values in order to save our image, or achieve some personal gain.
Moreover, if we give up because we want to please men, we will lose all. Or if we ourselves persecute others and plot evil against them because of their truthfulness and righteousness, then we must know that unforgettable shame and confusion will be our portion. For God always rescues the life of the poor and the righteous from the power of the wicked!
May God protect us and grant us the grace to remain faithful till the end. Amen
Happy Fathers’ Day to all fathers !!!
No comments:
Post a Comment