The WORD today (See http://usccb.org/bible/readings/082614.cfm) reminds me that God wants us to stand firm for Him.
I remember watching a Filipino movie “She’s Dating the Gangster” with my girlfriend a few weeks back, and one of the scenes there was the leading man, Kenji, was expecting to meet his ex girlfriend. She told him she will meet him in their usual spot, so he waited there. There were bullies making him go away, and he even got a beating. But despite that, he remained firm. He stood his ground and waited there.
This is how God wants us to live our lives.
The first reading shows us Paul telling the Thessalonians to be firm in faith. Despite everything they may hear, they are encouraged to be firm, put the focus on God, and continue loving him and serving Him. in the gospel, we see Jesus denouncing evil deeds done by scribes and Pharisees. God does not tolerate evil, and sees the evil and hardened hearts of these people.
God wants us to be firm in our faith.
We may face difficulties and uncertainties in life. We may see evil people prosper and become powerful and influential. These things may lead us into thinking twice about following the faith, about standing firm in faith. However, God reminds us today what he wants from us. No matter what happens, or what other people may do, we should remain firm. God will not let anything happen that we cannot handle by his grace, and his reward for us being firm will be eternal. His never ending love, goodness, and protection should be enough to help us stand firm in faith.
May we heed God’s call to stand firm in faith, no matter what, for we know that the psalmist’s words will come true – “The Lord comes to judge the earth”
Father God,
Thank you for today. thank you for another day to live. thank you for another chance to love and serve you. thank you for another work week. As I start working this week, I ask that you help me stand firm. May nothing and no one keep me from following you and standing up for you. I know that as I try to do so, you will continue to send your love and protection over men. Amen.
Blessed day!
In Christ,
-g-
Ps
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