Expect Persecution

Jesus told his Apostles directly, "Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple a doves." (Mt 10: 16).  Nor long after Pentecost, because the Apostles became very public about their mission, the fireworks began...stonings, jailings, beheadings, crucifixions, fodder for beasts. From our perspective 2,000 years later, we marvel at the fortitude, gutsiness and total dedication of these early Christians. But lately, it has become apparent that these atrocities continue around the globe, and have never really stopped as a look at history will show. In the United States where constitutionally we are free to practice our religion, there are jabs, and stabs at those who profess their Christian faith.  If we as a Christian Catholic power were more vocal and public, perhaps there would be even greater jabs and stabs.  Rather than provoke them by direct confrontation, we might become more public in expressing who we are and what we believe in conversation in our families, at gatherings, at restaurants.  We might pray before a meal at home, bur rarely do we see a prayer being said in a restaurant...Sort of the unwritten law (whose?) that we don't pray in public.  But when we do see some family making the sign of the cross, or bowing in silent prayer, aren't we edified, and perhaps even moved to do the same?  One person, one family, by a simple gesture can witness to the faith, and yes, expect criticism or ridicule. but we are still far from the persecutions and attacks that Jesus predicted.
Bro. Rene
Note:  I'll be attending a 45th class reunion in Wheeling, WV on Saturday...an early flight and a closed library, where I usually send Bro. Rene's Daily Bread, will be closed on Sunday.  I'll return Monday and serve up a slice on Tuesday.   Have a great weekend.