Jesus was aware of the persecutions and trials that the apostles would face on their mission to proclaim the Good News. In some towns their message would be ignored or rejected while in other places they would be handed over to councils, flogged, betrayed, hated, and even put to death.

Jesus advised the Twelve to flee from persecution so that the mission could continue in other places. He also warned them to be alert to signs of danger by cultivating a cunning wisdom like serpents while holding on to a heart of innocence or simplicity. These words must have been disconcerting to the apostles for they knew how ruthless the Romans could be and how vengeful their own Jewish religious leaders had become.

We too can face hostility or indifference for being bearers of the Gospel to a world that prefers the darkness of sin. Like the apostles, we are sent to bring the ‘Good News of Jesus Christ’ to our families, workplaces, and society through our witness. We can be ignored, belittled, or attacked by those who reject this message. There is need for cunning wisdom to know how to face such challenges, while maintaining a heart of peace and simplicity, centred on the promise that ‘what you are to say will be given to you’ (Matthew 10:19)

Let us pray with St Benedict for the wisdom and courage to preach the Gospel in all seasons of our lives.

Gracious and Holy Father, give us the wisdom to discover You, the intelligence to understand You, the diligence to seek after You, the patience to wait for You, eyes to behold You, a heart to meditate upon You, and a life to proclaim You. Amen.

By Mike Humphrys