Ephesians 6:10-20 ·
Psalm 143(144):1-2,9-10
Luke 13:31-35
BE ON GUARD
Our lives are filled with beautiful moments—gifts from God, grand and simple. Yet we also face things we dread: an awkward conversation, a painful talk with a friend, standing up to a bully, or protecting the innocent.
No one is spared this world’s hardships—not Saint Paul, the Psalmist, or Jesus. Imprisoned and awaiting punishment, Paul wrote, “I am already being poured out like a libation.” (II Timothy 4:6) He also declared, “We are being slain all the day; we are looked upon as sheep to be slaughtered,” (Romans 8:36). In today’s First Reading (Ephesians 6:10-20), Paul is chained and asks for prayers to find courage.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus is warned, “Go, leave this place, for Herod wants to kill you.”Luke 13:31. It’s enough to make anyone want to run. But Jesus sets the ultimate example. Even amid fear and sorrow, we are called to hope, patience, and trust in God’s joy and love. Paul writes, “Draw your strength from the Lord and from his mighty power. Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the Devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11). This armor includes belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, God’s word-the sword and prayer in the Spirit.
Our Psalm proclaims, “Blessed be the LORD, my rock — my mercy and my fortress, my stronghold, my deliverer, my shield, in whom I trust.” (Psalm144:1B, 2) Jesus answers Herod’s threat by calling him a “fox” (the literal translation would be closer to “jackal,” an insult in ancient Greece). He says, “You go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and I perform healings today and tomorrow, and on the third day I accomplish my purpose. I must continue on my way.” (Luke 13:32-33). With Jesus beside us, we can weather life’s storms. Paul puts it plainly: “If God is for us, then who can be against us? All these things we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:31-37)
As Christians, we know life rises gloriously from darkness. We may have to wade through muck, endure painful trials, or face our own crosses. But with Jesus beside us, joy, love, and unimaginable new life await.
Prayer
Dear God,
Thank you for all your gifts.
Give us strength to stand amid the rubble,
hold our heads high,
and look toward the light
as we follow the path before us.
Amen.
Fr Joseph Osho
