Remain steadfast in the face of adversity

Jun 23, 2023

                      Reflecting on our Sunday Readings with Fr David Gasikol

12th Sunday of
Ordinary Time (A)
Readings: Jeremiah 20:10-13;
Romans 5:12-15;
Gospel: Matthew 10:26-33

The readings for the 12th Sunday of Ordinary Time Year A are a powerful reminder of God’s love and mercy for His people.

The first reading from Jeremiah 20:10-13 speaks of the struggles and trials that Jeremiah faced as a prophet of God. Jeremiah was called by God to be a prophet to the people of Judah during a time of great political and social turmoil. He was a contemporary of several other prophets, including Habakkuk, Zephaniah, and Ezekiel. His prophetic mission began in the 13th year of King Josiah’s reign and continued through the Babylonian exile.

Jeremiah encountered various challenges, with rejection and persecution being among the most prominent. Despite being commissioned by God to convey a message of judgment and repentance to the people of Judah, they scorned, insulted, and even plotted against him. Consequently, Jeremiah felt lonely and isolated since he lacked friends or allies to support him. Moreover, he endured physical suffering, being beaten, imprisoned in stocks, and thrown into a cistern. Moreover, he watched as his close associates and family members also suffered because of his prophetic message. Nonetheless, the emotional anguish that Jeremiah experienced was the most significant struggle. He was profoundly saddened by the people’s disobedience and refusal to heed God’s message.

Despite all of these trials, Jeremiah remained steadfast to God and continued to deliver his message of warning and hope. He serves as an example of steadfastness and perseverance in the face of adversity. His prophetic message was not always easy to hear, but it was necessary for the people of Judah to hear it in order to repent and turn back to God. Jeremiah’s message still speaks to us today, reminding us of the importance of steadfastness to God, even in the midst of our trials and suffering.

We may also identify with the experiences of the Prophet Jeremiah in our life too. We too experience many trials, challenges, and rejections. But let us draw our attention to the Gospel reading from Matthew 10:26-33 where Jesus reassures His disciples, and us too, that we should not fear those who oppose us but instead trust in God’s protection and providence. Jesus encourages His disciples to boldly proclaim the Gospel without fear of the consequences. He draws attention to God’s sovereignty and provision, reminding his disciples that God cares even for the smallest creatures and that they should have faith that God will care for them as well.

How are we able to do this? The second reading from Romans 5:12-15 explores the concept of sin and salvation through Jesus Christ. St. Paul emphasises the abundance of God's grace and the gift of righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. This passage reminds us of the universal nature of sin and the incredible gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

The Sunday readings of today provide meaningful lessons for Christians in the present world. These teachings urge us to persevere in our dedication to God, despite the obstacles or temptations we may encounter. They serve as a reminder of the remarkable blessing of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and inspire us to spread this wonderful message to others. Amidst the difficulties we face every day, let us find courage in these readings and rely on God’s unwavering faithfulness and strength to support us. Let us always remember that we should never surrender in doing what is right, because ultimately, goodness prevails.

--  In what ways do you face opposition or persecution for your faith? How do you respond to these challenges?

--  How do you prioritise your relationship with God above material possessions or social status? Are there areas in your life where you need to refocus your priorities?

-- Have you experienced the abundance of God’s grace and the gift of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ? How has this impacted your life?

-- How can you remain committed to sharing God’s message with the world, even in the face of opposition or indifference?

-- In what ways can you trust in God’s provision and protection, rather than relying on your own strength or resources?

--  Are there areas in your life where you struggle with sin or addiction? How can faith in Jesus Christ help you overcome these struggles?

F.E.A.R. has two meanings; Forget Everything And Run, or Face Everything And Rise. Therefore, the choice is yours!

(Fr David Gasikol, from the Diocese of Keningau, is currently doing his Licentiate in Canon Law at the Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines.)