The Lord is at our side

 

 

Today we see a close connection between the readings. In the Gospel, Jesus tells the disciples that they will be sad when he leaves them to return to the Father. 'You are sad now,'' he tells them, ''but I shall see you again and your hearts will be full of joy.'' (John 16:20-23). And in the first reading, that is exactly what Paul experienced in Corinth. He could never forget his own Jewish people and in every place he went to he began preaching in the snagogue. But on this occasion in Corinth, the Jews turned against him and accused him before the proconsul of preaching about God in a way that breaks the Law. Paul was strengthened by the words of the Lord who had told him, '' Do not be afraid to speak out, nor allow yourself to be silenced: I am with you.'' Paul was confident that the Lord would protect him and sure enough the proconsul Gallio threw out the charges against him. As I reflect on those words to Paul, ''I am with you','' I remember all the times I have been in a difficult situation and have been protected. Once when driving, I received a strong message to slow down and next thing a truck came around a bend much too fast and crossed over to the wrong side of the road in front of me. If I had not slowed down, we would have had a head on collision. Let us remember all the times we have been aware of the protection of God in our lives. ''When I was really hurting, I prayed to the Lord. He answered my prayer and took my worries away. The Lord is at my side and I am not afraid.'' (Psalm 118, 5,6)