The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Mattathias and his sons gathered in a group apart. (1 Maccabees 2:16)
Not many of us have ever been threatened with a “your faith or your life” scenario. But most of us do feel pressured at times to compromise our faith. Mattathias knew the pressure and stood firm against it. We can too. There is hope, there is power we can draw on, and there is the promise of a final resolution. His name is Jesus!
When you feel weak, look to Jesus. He was born in weakness, but he overcame the greatest of all enemies. He knows that we run the risk of scattering—maybe not because our lives are at risk but because temptation is so strong that we lose our clarity and courage. In this way, we are no different from the disciples who scattered after Jesus was arrested. And so he tells us the same thing he told them: “Take courage, I have conquered the world” (John 16:33).
Jesus came into the world so that we might live the truth joyfully, freely, and boldly, just as he did. That’s what drew people to him. That’s what discouraged his opponents, who eventually learned that they would never convince him to turn or compromise. This is how he wants us to live too. He has promised to help us live in his victory every day. So look to him, to his light shining before you! The more joyfully and freely you live your faith, the less pressure you will feel to compromise it.
Jesus has conquered. Look to him who is slain and who has triumphed. Though you face opposition now, though you are tempted to abandon the truths you believe in, you can still remain faithful as Mattathias and his family did. Yes, it’s hard some days. But don’t give in. Talk to the Lord. Ask for his help and encouragement. Believe that in Christ you have an advocate who sits at the right hand of the Father and intercedes for you. You have a redeemer who has sent his Spirit to empower you and to give you the wisdom and self-control, the joy and peace necessary to carry on, faithful, to the end.
“Jesus, fill my heart with your power and boldness. Give me your joy and peace. Lord, I need your wisdom and self-control so that I can stand firm today.”
Psalm 50:1-2, 5-6, 14-15; Luke 19:41-44
Daily Marriage Tip for November 21, 2013:
Some individuals are poor, some have disabilities, some are facing a personal crisis. Pick a person who is struggling and imagine yourself in their shoes today. It might be a family member or someone you’ve heard about on the news. Developing empathy makes you easier to love.