To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Commentary on the Gospel for Thursday, December 26, 2024
Trusting in God Amidst Challenges
Some may consider it unusual that a martyr’s feast occurs right after the joyful celebration of the birth of Jesus. The feast of St. Stephen’s martyrdom helps to put the meaning of Christmas into perspective for us. Jesus made himself vulnerable as was St. Stephen. He opened himself to the possibility of suffering and death. From the time of his conception and birth, Jesus was destined to win the salvation of the world through his death on the cross.
Jesus commissions His disciples to face a mission filled with trials, using metaphors that resonate even today: sheep among wolves, prudent serpents, and doves. These images highlight the challenging path of faith, calling us to embody both wisdom and innocence as we engage a world often resistant to the Gospel.
Today, the dangers Jesus warned about—persecution, betrayal, and division—persist in modern forms. Social alienation, ideological conflicts, and family tensions can test our commitment to living and proclaiming the Gospel. Yet, these challenges are opportunities for witness, drawing others to Christ’s love. In such moments, the Spirit of the Father strengthens us, providing wisdom and clarity to persevere.
Jesus’ call to “be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” teaches us to balance discernment with trust. While we must remain alert to hostility, we are also called to radiate the love of the Lord. This balance is essential in transforming opposition into opportunities for evangelisation.
The divisions Jesus describes, even within families, echo the struggles that many of us face today. These painful moments challenge us to place Christ above all. How can we reflectwisdom and innocence in our interactions today? Do we rely on the Spirit’s guidance in challenging times?