Calvary Was Not Fun

THIS IS JESUS

Reflection for July 11, 2016 

After the gospel reading yesterday in regard to the life of the Good Samaritan, we can glimpse into the eye of Jesus' mind when he talks about what will happen when we take up a lifestyle that reflects the Good Samaritan. 

You see, there will be those that will not support your belief, there will be those that will suspect less than noble motives, and those that will think that it is a weak and obsolete lifestyle.  Those that oppose this lifestyle will be some of the closest people in our lives.  Mother, father, sister, brother, wife, husband, friends and loved ones will walk away or deal at us at a distance. 

St. Benedict is an example of such a person.  St. Benedict had his closest friends attempt to murder him when he held them accountable for their actions.  

The Holy Martyrs were tortured and killed because of their faith.  Jesus was killed because of His message of Love and inclusion, Dr. Martin Luther King was killed because he held America to a higher standard, a standard that recognizes the value of every human person.   

When we take up that cross of Christ daily we need to be prepared for the worst, but, prepared for the best at the same time.   

I live my life with the resurrection in my sights and no person will keep me from living that life.  Our fear comes from not being liked or labeled as a radical. 

We are fortunate that we are not hunted like wild animals as in the days of the early church and as it is in some parts of the world today, but, if it happens to be that way;  will we still profess our belief that every person is created in the image of God and therefore good, and will we profess our love for Christ?   

Today's message, though initially course, brings a light of hope;   

"And whoever gives only a cup of cold water to one of these little ones to drink because he is a disciple– amen, I say to you, he will surely not lose his reward.”     

May God bless you, protect you, and let His face to shine upon you!