The Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

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.

Perseverance is the key to following in Jesus’ footsteps. Jesus’ entire life is one constant act of perseverance. From the persecutions of Herod and his family’s flight to Egypt to the trial of Pilate and his crucifixion, Jesus has shown us what it means to overcome all obstacles to our faith, to keep hope alive, and love without waiver. We might not be understood or loved by others because of our beliefs, but that should not matter to us. We should believe because it is God’s Will, not because it will make us popular. If we accept this truth, then God will protect us with His mighty hand. He will guide us where we need to be and help us to triumph over evil and enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Are we willing to do the right thing even if it means we will be hated for it? Do we trust that God will protect us if we persevere? What can we do to ensure that our faith endures?

O Lord, give us the grace of perseverance.

Amen.