ACTS 22:30, 23:6-11; PSALM 16; JOHN 17:20-26
The gospel presents us with the prayer of Jesus for all believers. Jesus prayed for strength for believers – strength to carry his Gospel to all peoples. We are to witness to Christ everywhere knowing that he is always with us to guide and protect us. In the first reading, Paul manifested this divine strength while he faced trial in Jerusalem, he was arrested yet he did not give up on preaching the gospel. After his released he was told in a vision to go Rome to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. By the strength of Christ Paul remained steadfast (Phil.4:13). Beloved, true followers of Christ don’t give up because of trials. James 1:12 says “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
LET US PRAY
May your Spirit, O Lord, we pray, imbue us powerfully with spiritual gifts, that he may give us a mind pleasing to you and graciously conform us to your will. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever.
