Great and wonderful are all your works, Lord, mighty God! — Revelation 15:3
Mass reading: Revelation 15:1-4 / Luke 21:12-19
I’m one of those people who panics. A lot. I panic over small things and big things alike, trying to trust God but always wanting to take the controls. When I read today’s Gospel, where Jesus prepares His disciples for what’s ahead and urges them to persevere, it made me think about what my own reaction might have been.
Despite my tendency to become alarmed, I’m a persistent person. I outlast my stress, finding a way to do what has to be done. But I’ve never had to persevere through the kind of thing that Jesus talks about today, the ultimate test of faith. Here in our land of freedom, it’s easy to forget that faith comes at a great price for others who know the hard truth about real perseverance. Could I walk in their shoes?
Prayer: Today, Lord, I pray for those who are persecuted for believing in You.