Daily Gospel Reflection for July 8, 2022

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Matthew 10:16-23

This message of having courage in the face of Christian persecution is difficult to embrace. I’m not one of those saints who hope for martyrdom. I certainly don’t want everyone to hate me. Truthfully, I try to avoid conflict whenever possible.

Yet, the reality is that everyone who is a practicing Christian will face some sort of persecution at one time or another. I can recall being made fun of for wearing a cross on a chain around my neck, for going to church, for praying too much, and for being a “goody-two-shoes” (is that term even used anymore?). I’ve been referred to as “Mother Teresa” and the person saying it did not mean it as a compliment. (Truly, I’m honored to have been compared to her. I don’t even come close to her level of humility and self-giving.) I’ve been criticized for being pro-life and for being too generous.

I’m sure you’ve had similar encounters in your own life. In the big scheme of things, these are minor persecutions. I hope and pray that none of us must face the big-time persecutions that so many Christians around the world endure.

Would I have the courage to hold true to our faith in the face of physical torture and death? While I don’t want to find out, I pray that I would.

Ponder:

In what ways have you been persecuted for your faith? How did you respond?

Pray:

Dear Lord, when I am persecuted in ways big or small for my faith, help me to have courage and to always remain true to You.

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Everyone who is a practicing Christian will face some sort of persecution at one time or another. #dailygospel

Copyright 2022 Patrice Fagnant-MacArthur