Daily Retreat 07/11/08

Hos 14: 2-10/ Ps 50(51): 3-4. 8-9. 12-13. 14 and 17/ Mt 10: 16-23 From today's readings:  "Straight are the paths of the LORD, in them the just walk, but sinners stumble in them....  Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness; in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense....  Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves." What a deal! One of the most amazing things about Christian discipleship is its cost!  Jesus certainly was forthright in warning His followers that He was sending them "like sheep in the midst of wolves," and that their faithfulness would lead to their persecution and hatred. The Apostles experienced the literal fulfillment of Christ's prophecy, as was attested by many a martyr's death.  The religious freedom which most of us take for granted shields us from martyrdom and bodily suffering for the Name of Jesus, but the modern religious indifference fosters a more subtle form of persecution.  As long as a person quietly keeps his faith to himself, there are no problems.  But, when Christ and His Gospel is embraced in everyday life, there will necessarily be clashes with the secular mindset. And that's when we have the opportunity (and obligation!) to stand up for our faith, and follow in the footsteps of the Apostles - they were cautioned by Christ Himself about the cost of Christian discipleship, but also taught by Him who made it all worthwhile!