But you are not of the world, since I have chosen you from the world; because of this the
world hates you.
Remember what I told you: the servant is not greater than his master; if they persecuted
me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will keep yours as well. All
this they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know the One who
sent me.
Reflect
Persecution is a real and present danger for many of our brothers and sisters in
Christ. The news is filled with stories of people who have lost their houses, their
livelihoods, and even their lives because of their faith. Thousands more are forced
to leave their homelands, looking for safety and freedom to live their faith with their
families in peace and security. We can support these people with our prayer and
charity, but also by advocating on their behalf with our political leaders and by
extending a hand of welcome to those forced to migrate.
But being safe from persecution does not mean that we will not face difficulties
as we practice our faith. We may be mocked and lose friends because we act
on our moral commitments. We may need to reject the values of the world
to live in righteousness and charity. We may anger others by speaking out on
behalf of the forgotten and reaching out to those on the margins. But we can
take courage, knowing that the same thing happened to the one we follow,
Jesus, and he will give us strength through his abiding love.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2023