Stand Strong, Stay United!
(Acts 22:30, 23:6-11; Psalm 16; John 17:20-26)
Beloved, faith isn’t proven by comfort, it’s proven in conflict.
In the first reading, Paul was not just arrested, he was opposed, misunderstood, and almost torn apart. But guess what? He didn’t retreat, he reloaded! He stood firm in the face of pressure because he knew his mission was greater than his pain. And when men tried to silence him, God sent him to Rome because God always has the final say over your destiny (Acts 23:11).
Real Christians don’t crumble under trials they testify through them. Paul was powered by perseverance, not popularity. He understood James 1:12: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial…” If you’re going to walk in purpose, you must be prepared to walk through pressure.
And in the Gospel? Jesus is not just preaching He’s praying. Not for wealth. Not for applause. But for unity. He says, “May they be one…” Why? Because division weakens the mission. The devil doesn’t fear a big crowd, he fears a united one.
Church, family, community what are you doing to keep it together? Unity begins with “U” yes, YOU. Your attitude, your forgiveness, your humility – matters.
Don’t be the reason your home breaks. Be the reason it heals. Don’t just wear a cross, carry it, defend it, and live it.
LET US PRAY:
Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on us. Strengthen our faith, deepen our love, and unite us in purpose. May we stand tall in trials and stand together in truth. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
