Text: Matthew 10:17-23
Prayer Pointers:
For those anxious in these days
For brothers and sisters persecuted for the faith
For our neighbors
An early leader of the Church named Ignatius wrote a letter to his flock around the year 107 AD:
Since you are children of the light of truth, flee from schism and false doctrine...there are many specious wolves who, by means of wicked pleasures, capture those who run God’s race. In the face of your unity, however, they will not have a chance.
Ignatius ends this portion of the letter by encouraging his readers to continue in “Jesus Christ’s way.”
As we look at the agonies that wrack our nation, we must remember our Lord’s admonition to be both wise and innocent. Remember the way of Jesus Christ! We have the promises of God, which are eternal, and so we practice the things that make for peace. We welcome where others snub and insult; we share where others withhold; we pray for those who seek our harm. We defend the widow, the orphan, the least of these; we look to build our neighbors up and ensure they are secure in their lives, property, and relationships. We do this without regard to tribe, or tongue, or skin tone. We do this because in every encounter there is a joyous chance to meet the living Christ and serve him, and an opportunity to love a brother or sister!
I say to you all, be not afraid! Let us do as our brother Ignatius wrote, and keep practicing Jesus’ way.
May your day be grace-filled ~ Pr. Dave Brooks