Explore the cost of discipleship in today's Gospel reflection, highlighting the honor of standing firm in faith amid worldly rejection and persecution.
Today's Gospel: John 15:18-21
There’s nothing subtle about today’s Gospel reading, taken from the Last Supper Discourses. Jesus, knowing He will be arrested in just a few hours, lays everything out in black and white, revealing in no uncertain terms the cost of discipleship.
The Apostles and early Christians faced tremendous persecution. To this day, Christians around the world are killed, imprisoned, harassed, and prevented from freely practicing their faith. Churches are burned, statues destroyed, and sacred spaces profaned with graffiti. But why?
Our Lord makes it clear. If the world hates us, it is because they hated Him first. And for us, like the Apostles, what an honor it is to pay this price.
We may never pay the full price of martyrdom, but we will certainly pay in other ways. True disciples must often turn away from the world’s expectations. There are things we cannot do, movies we cannot see, jobs we cannot accept, groups we cannot support. At times, the world will laugh at us, reject us, tease us, and even hate us for the decisions we have to make and the things we are called to do.
But remember, it is at these times that we are the most blessed, because we do not belong to the world; we belong to Our Lord. He has chosen us, and when we suffer for His sake, we are closer to Him than ever.
Ponder:
What are some things I must reject or do without in order to be a good disciple?
Pray:
Lord, help me to see that Your approval is far more important than that of the world. Help me to be strong when people do not respect my faith.
Pray Together:
Say a special prayer for Christians around the world who are facing persecution.
Copyright 2026 Andrea Vij
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