Thirty-Forth Wednesday of Ordinary Time

“They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

We will be hated because of Jesus’ name. It’s a hard message to understand, but as we go throughout life, we experience various persecutions because of our faith. We might not be led off to prison or put to death for our beliefs, but we shall see the face of persecution in others. They might be our family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, or strangers, but we will know them by the hatred behind their words and works. We will be tempted to respond in kind, but when faced with these temptations, we should remember Jesus’ example and choose perseverance over revenge. Just as he forgave those who trespassed against him and put him to death, so too we must forgive those who trespass against us. One way we can do this is by following the advice of today’s gospel: to let God respond through us. We can do this by not being reactionary in our speech and actions. It is easy to be caught up in the heat of the moment and say or do something in defense of ourselves that we will regret later. Instead, we should prepare no defense, offer up our thoughts to God and seek His inspiration as to how we should respond. Sometimes taking those extra few moments to bring God into our response will be enough to keep us from seeking revenge on those who persecute us and instead transform the negative experience of maltreatment into a positive one of merciful forgiveness.

Who are the people who mistreat or persecute us? Do we respond to them out of love or hatred? How can we foster a spirit of mercy in the face of our persecutors?

O Lord, grant us your wisdom and perseverance.

Amen.