Remember the word I spoke to you, “No slave is greater than his master.” If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you.
(John 1:20)
Dear Jesus, I should rejoice as the apostles did in Acts if I am found worthy to suffer in your name. While I don’t feel attacked as an individual, I participate in the current assaults on my beliefs. You did not say, “Live and let live,” but rather, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” When asked, “Who is my neighbor?” you answered with the parable of the Good Samaritan. I must be a neighbor; I must see myself, and even more, you, in the unborn child, in the elderly and ill, in the sanctity of marriage and all the other Sacraments you have given to us, and in all who need someone to speak for them.
We, too, are called to be your disciples. We are given courage by the Holy Spirit to stand up against laws and customs that deny the dignity of life. While defending others who suffer pain and injustice, we must, ourselves, be willing to endure persecution and even martyrdom, if that be your will. When we see sin and failure, let us first examine our own souls before picking up a stone.
When we feel useless, let us remember that without you we are nothing, and that prayer is more powerful than politics. Make us humble, Lord, that we may exalt in you and praise you. Make me, also, an instrument of your peace. Thy will be done.