A WORD FOR TODAY 24 NOVEMBER 2021

https://youtu.be/40UHbrUidDg

*A WORD FOR TODAY*

*STAY STRONG IN YOUR TIME OF PERSECUTION*

_"But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name’s sake."(Luke 21:12)_

_*Persecution is something that anyone who makes the decision to follow Jesus must be ready to face in this life. Just as our Lord Jesus Christ was persecuted and finally killed on the cross, those who choose to come after Him must be prepared to be hated and persecuted.*_

_In the gospel reading of today, Jesus tells his disciples that they will be hated by men for his name's sake. He was very clear in what befalls anyone who follows Him. It will not be all cosy, but if we endure till the end, then we shall win the crown of salvation._

_*Our persecution can come from any source, even from close associates, family members, colleagues, friends and people you have shown love and made sacrifices for. For the sake of Christ, people will hate you and do all they can to get you out of their way.*_

_Our response in moments of persecution should not be fear or desire to flee, instead, we should stand firm in faith and use the moment to proclaim the name of Jesus to those who persecute us. The Lord will give you wisdom to speak and your endurance will gain your life._

_*Persecutions are bound to come to those who have made up their mind to follow Christ and to stand on the side of what is right. If you choose to speak the truth always, people are going to hate you for it and try also to get rid of you, but you must never give up or allow it to weigh you down. Just keep doing good and be prepared to be killed for it. You may lose your life here on earth, but the doors of heaven will be opened for you on the last day.*_

_Today we celebrate the memorial of St. Andrew Dung-lac and companions. They were martyrs of Vietnam who poured out their blood in propagation of the gospel and today they are in heaven enjoying the beatific vision. Let us learn from them not to give up in moments of persecution, but to use it as a motivation to do more good in God's name._

_*Good morning dearest one. Smile😊as you do your work and do have a blessed day. May Jesus give you the grace to stand firm in moments of persecution. Amen. And may the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.*_

*Meditation:* Daniel 5:1-6,13--14,16-17,23-28/Daniel 3:40-45/Luke 21:12-19

*Watch-Word:* By your endurance you will gain your lives

_*Do not let your persecution break you apart. Stand firm, conquer it and you will have your crown waiting for you.*_

(Wednesday of the 34th week in the ordinary time. Year 1. Memorial of St. Andrew Dung-lac & Companions)