The Church Persecuted and Scattered
ACTS 8:1-8, PS.66, JOHN 6:35-40
Saul persecuted the Church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison. However, those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there (Acts 8:3-5).
Persecution is the basic theme in today’s first reading. Severe persecution came against the early Church in Jerusalem. This persecution caused all the believers except the apostles to be scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Widespread evangelization was the outcome of the dispersion of Christians across the country. Persecution of Christians is not a probability; but a certainty. During this moment of Christ, Philip discovered his gift. God is the finest at transforming suffering into joy; what was meant for evil instead resulted in the conversion of more people to the faith.
In the gospel Jesus says “I have come from heaven, not to do my own will, but to do the will of the one who sent me”. Therefore, Christianity is not about our will but the will of God. Christians must learn to discern and accept God’s will. Are we going to reject our faith or submit to God’s will if another horrifying event occurs today?
Despite ease and difficulties, the saints submitted to God’s will for their life, and today we honor them. As a result, Christians will undoubtedly face persecution, but those who endure it will ultimately be saved. Matt. 5:10 says “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”.
LET US PRAY
Be present to your family, O Lord, we pray, and graciously ensure those you have endowed with the grace of faith an eternal share in the Resurrection of your Only Begotten Son through Christ our Lord. Amen!
