The Need of Persecution in Christian Life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Thirty fourth Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 21:12-19*

*First Reading : Rv 15:1-4*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 98:1-2, 3ab, 7-8, 9*

*The Need of Persecution in Christian Life*

*1) The reality of Persecution*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the persecution 

Persecution is a reality in the lives of Christians. Today all over the world Christians are facing terrible forms of persecutions 

Even in our surroundings, Christians are persecuted for various reasons 

In the world today, Christianity is the religion which is being persecuted by others. Christianity is in first place, in facing the persecution for its values and ideals 

*2) Its an opportunity for Christians*

Jesus makes it very clear in today's Gospel that, persecutions are great opportunities for Christians to prove who they are 

By facing persecutions and bearing witness to Christ and his values, a person becomes real witness in world to carry the mission of the Lord 

All of us have the duty of spreading the message of Christ. Facing the persecution and remaining firm in our faith is the best way to prove our identity 

That's why its an great opportunity for us 

*3) Faith grows through Persecution*

In the history this fact is very visible 

The began amidst persecution and it grew and become strong in the midst of persecution 

The first 300 years are best example to prove this fact 

Whenever and wherever there is persecution faith simply becomes strong and it spreads. This is the logic of Christian faith    

*4) Persecution, because Jesus' Name* 

We are persecuted not because we are bad or for our evil deeds 

Jesus clearly says, the persecutions which Christians face because of the name of Jesus 

*You will be hated by all because of my name,* 

So it is an honour to suffer for Jesus because through the persecution our faith is purified and becomes strong 

*5) Effects of Persecution*

One realizes the cost of discipleship

One becomes strong in his/her convictions

One becomes close to Jesus 

One is able to inspire others 

Persecution changes the priorities of life 

God protects the person in every situation 

Not even a hair can be lost through the persecution 

The persecutor is lost forever but the persecuted will shine forever  

*6) My Perception towards persecution*

Am I trying to escape from it? 

How it has affected me, either positively or negatively?

Am I bold enough to face the persecution? 

Am I able to bear witness to Christ amidst the persecution?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*