Friday, April 11, 2014

Facing Opposition and Suffering

The closer we get to Holy Week, the keener the opposition Jesus faces stands out.  His direct I AM declaration did not convince, but only angered his opponents.  Even his "works", did not convince them.
In frustration, Jesus returned to the place where he was baptized by John in the Jordan and heard the assuring voice of his Father saying, "This is my beloved Son upon whom my favor rests.  Listen to him."  (Mt 3:17). The anguish of  his rejection and the thoughts of the impending suffering and death awaiting him shortly culminated in his agony in the Garden of Gethsemane.
When Jesus said, Unless you take up your cross daily and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. (Mk 8: 34). he warned us that we can expect nothing less than what he experienced. St. Stanislaus of Poland, whose memorial is today, bravely challenged King Boleslaus II, the wicked king of Poland, and even excommunicated him, an action which cost him his life at the hands of the king himself. St. Stanislaus was a true disciple of Jesus, bearing the cross of opposition and martyrdom.  How many Christians today bear that same cross?    How many people do we know who are experiencing rejection or mockery because of their faith?  How many do we know who are suffering with terminal illnesses?  Cancer strikes randomly, hitting friends, family, and perhaps us ourselves?  All of this is bearable only if united with the sufferings of Jesus and seen as part of the price for being a true disciple.  May we, like Jesus, embrace it all as a call to share in his self-sacrifice for the redemption of the human race.
Bro. Rene

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