From Birth to Death

 

 Matthew 10: 17-22

Endure to the End

¹⁷ Beware of them, for they will hand you over to councils and flog you in their synagogues, ¹⁸ and you will be dragged before governors and kings because of me, as a testimony to them and the gentiles. ¹⁹ When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you at that time, ²⁰ for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. ²¹ Sibling will betray sibling to death and a father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, ²² and you will be hated by all because of my name. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

The day after we celebrate the birth of Jesus in classic festive and gift-giving liturgical and family rituals, we face the grim reality that following Jesus means pain, suffering, and even death.  We have lived this reality to some extent and our daily headlines remind us that despite the birth of the Prince of Peace, violence, hatred, and war continue to flourish.  We can't say that we weren't warned, but we can strive to live our faith and work toward peace in our own families and circles of friends.  May St. Stephen help us to be instruments of healing and peace.

Bro. Rene

Almighty God, the gift of your Son brings us assurance and confidence. Today, as we remember the first martyr Stephen, give us strength in every conflict and struggle. We pray for the end of all persecution and strife. May your Son’s peace rest in our hearts. We pray this in his name. Amen.

  Rev. Robert Loughery, C.S.C.