ON FACING PERSECUTION

Reflection for Monday of the 6^th Week of Easter

(Acts 16:11-15; Jn 15:26—16:4)

Have you ever felt persecuted? This may happen where someone is on the lookout for your faults, or dislike your personality. It can come when someone is angry when you are happy and happy when you are sad! Persecution often comes when people want to impose their religion, ideologies and ways of life on others. Jesus tells us in the Gospel that those who persecute others do so from strong conviction. “Indeed the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God.” Yes, most abuse of power comes in the name of fighting corruption, correcting wrong, protecting common interest, etc. Those who hate you do so in the name of something else they love!

At what point does one’s good intention for the service of God or the good turn out to become persecution? This is when one acts in the name of God but not of God. Such action is not inspired and empowered by the Holy Spirit. That is why we need the Holy Spirit to discern deeply, for good intention is not enough; we must choose our actions wisely and timely.

The Holy Spirit comes to bear witness; to witness to the truth that is Jesus. Today Jesus calls the Holy Spirit “the Counsellor” and “the Spirit of truth.” He takes our faith to that depth where persecution cannot reach. Since persecution is not of God, it cannot hurt that which is kept secure in the Spirit of God. “Blessed are those who are persecuted in the cause of uprightness: the kingdom of Heaven is theirs” (Mt 5:10). “But I say this to you: offer no resistance to the wicked...” (Mt 5:38-42).

We cannot stand for the truth of Jesus Christ without some opposition. By promising us the Counsellor, Jesus teaches us that persecution is an opportunity to bear witness. Hence, persecution makes the believer stronger not weaker. So whoever is alive in the Holy Spirit will always produce positive actions even in the heat of persecution. That is why our intentions and actions must be of God. We must remain focused on our vocation and daily responsibilities, just as Paul and his companions did despite the persecutions they faced. There is no time for grudge or revenge. Let the Holy Spirit lead you to the complete truth. Amen. 

Fr Jude Nwachukwu, C.Ss.R

Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church

Tedi-Muwo, Lagos.

Monday May 18^th, 2020.