Be Strong in Faith

11-06-2022Weekly Reflection© J. S. Paluch Company

Today's readings present us with extreme examples of faithfulness and reliance on the promise of eternal life. Most of us will never be tortured because of our Christian faith, although people are martyred every year because of their commitment to Christ. While we may never face bodily harm as Christians, there are consequences to living as a disciple. We might be ridiculed or harassed. We might find it necessary to call out injustice in the workplace or our local city, and such witness may cost us our jobs and friendships. What are we prepared to do as followers of our Lord? Today, we are encouraged to be strong in faith, secure in the belief that when we endure in Christ, we may look forward to life in eternity with God.

The Apple of God's Eye

Any who have a relationship with a child—parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, special friends—know the power of love it is possible to feel for another. It is not that the child is incapable of doing wrong; we know they can and will. Rather, their mistakes do not change our love for them. In fact, the love makes us want what is best for them. Often, we can see their potential with greater perspective than they themselves can. They're the apple of our eye. We are the apple of God's eye, beloved children of our Lord. God knows (God really knows) that we can and will fail. We fall short of the potential that God is certain we have. Yet God does not cease to love us and to call us to live as God's own in the world.

Hidden in the Shadow of God's Wings

Certain that we are held closely by God frees us to live the challenge of the gospel, to give our lives for the sake of others. We will be tempted to take the easy route and ignore the voice of the Lord, listening instead to the call of wealth, power, acceptance, status, and earthly security. Today's readings remind us that we can face temptation, secure that we are hidden in the shadow of God's wings, strengthened and guarded from evil by our Lord Jesus Christ. What challenging thing are you called to do today as a follower of Jesus? About what must you take a stand? What might be the consequences of discipleship at this time in your life? “May lave the of Coad Lord and direct the your hearts to the love of God and the endurance of Christ.”