The Word God Spells

Matthew 10: 16-23
Gn 46:1-7.28-30 / Ps 37

You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved. When they persecute you in one town, flee to another.
(Matthew 10:22-23)

It’s not for glory or men’s praise
We struggle to proclaim God’s Word;
We’re driven by the Spirit’s grace,
To serve God is enough reward.

“See, I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of them, for they will hand you over to councils and flog you in their synagogues; and you will be dragged before governors and kings because of me, as a testimony to them and the Gentiles. When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given to you at that time; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death; and you will be hated by all because of my name. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next; for truly I tell you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.”

Reflection

When Bro. Dante was appointed course leader of a Christian Life seminar in one of our outreaches, he experienced such an onslaught from the other side, and even his own family members were not spared from the battle. His son was driving home one day when a 7-year old student suddenly crossed the road without looking. Only his quick response prevented a major tragedy. The boy was rushed to the hospital, and Bro. Dante had to attend to all the medical needs and matters pertaining to the accident. In spite of the distraction, he did not excuse himself from the ongoing seminar, which was held almost a hundred kms. away in Gen. Santos City.

As leaders gifted with strong faith, we have been chosen by God for an important mission, and as His commanders in the field, we have the confidence of knowing that we have direct access to Him in times of heavy attack from the enemy. This privilege distinguishes us, but at the same time humbles us with the knowledge that we bear heavier burdens, and stand at the forefront of the battle. In braving life’s adversities, we stand as Christ’s models, and give substance to His Good News in our community.

St. Paul was one of Christ’s greatest apostles, although he never walked with the Lord as the others did. In his 2nd letter to the Corinthians, he said (10:4), “Our war is not fought with weapons of flesh, yet they are strong enough, in God’s cause, to demolish fortresses.” And in 6:4, 6 & 7: “We prove that we are servants of God by great fortitude in times of suffering: in times of hardship and distress. . . by our purity, knowledge, patience and kindness; by a spirit of holiness, by a love free from affectation; by the word of truth and by the power of God; armed with the weapons of righteousness, prepared for honour or disgrace, for blame or praise.”

Lord, strengthen our will as we fight the good fight of faith for Your kingdom. Amen.