Reflection
In today’s Gospel, Jesus continues to instruct his apostles before sending them out to act on his behalf. Much of what he prepares them for happened as they formed the new Church and helped it grow as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles.
Jesus instructs the apostles to be “shrewd as serpents and simple as doves.” The serpent, normally seen as a symbol of the Evil One, represents here holy wisdom, prudence and an understanding of the world. As Catholics, we are called to engage with today’s anti-Christian culture thoughtfully, anticipating the challenges to come without compromising our faith. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can be creative in how we spread the good news of our faith. But Jesus also tells the apostles, and us, to be “..simple as doves.” The dove represents purity and gentleness. Even in a hostile environment, our motives and actions are to remain rooted in the charity that is God’s love for us and for everyone.
We Catholics tend to shy away from confrontation with the hostile culture to avoid condemnation and judgment from others. While we may not be seized and imprisoned for our faith, we will have our faith tested and put on trial by others who want to dismiss Catholicism as an “out of date” or “irrelevant” religion. We should not avoid these confrontations and trials. Rather, we should trust in the power of the Holy Spirit within us to give us the wisdom and the words to answer any criticisms. Guided by the Spirit, our words and actions will reveal our true love of God and provide the humility necessary to win others over to the Christian ideal.
Jesus openly acknowledges that our faith can cause rifts, even within families. In these cases, difficult choices will be necessary. We must, however, stand firm to the end. Bearing these divisions and carrying these crosses of rejection is participation Christ’s way of the Cross and necessary for our ultimate salvation.
Our faith calls us to remember the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, his suffering and death on the cross, accomplished so that he could defeat the power of death and sin for each of us. Our focus is on the eternal reward, eternity with Jesus in heaven. Our salvation is accomplished by following His will in this world. So let us go forth and show others the joy that comes from living the life Jesus has planned for us.
Today’s Question for Prayer and Reflection
How can I better face the challenges to living out my faith?