Matthew 10:17-22
Today’s Gospel contains words Jesus spoke to all of his disciples – words recorded for our day as well as for St. Stephen and the early followers. In today’s climate these words give me hope: “Whoever endures to the end will be saved.”
Jesus speaks about his followers being mistreated and hated by all because of him. It is occurring today in many varied ways, and it happened so drastically to Mother Pauline and the earlier Sisters. We know the hardships endured during the Kulturkampf. The pain and rejection were real, not only in the 1870’s, but during World War II when some of the Sisters were imprisoned, injured, exiled or suffered the loss of everything.
The “deaths” we all experience in our lives may not be as harsh or obvious as those mentioned above. Probably few of us will find ourselves imprisoned or in court for proclaiming Jesus,
though we cannot be sure of that. Our persecutions can be much more subtle, but no less painful. Misunderstandings, “stoning” by harsh words, sarcasm, or avoidance can be a martyrdom. Rejection of the faith by family members or friends can strike at the heart and wound us. But Jesus reminds us that we are never alone.
Resurrections always follow the deaths. We find support in the community and the daily grace of the sacraments. God gives us words to speak, strength to rise, forgiveness with which to reconcile, and the promise of heaven where all will be made new.
Mother Pauline reminds us: “With serenity, courage, and proper reflection one can advance far under God’s protection, but principle may never be compromised even a hair’s breadth” (1878).
When in my life have I had to rely totally on God for strength in a devastating situation? How did God see me through?
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