FRIDAY, SECOND WEEK OF EASTER
Memorial of Saint Athanasius
Acts 5: 34-42 Ps 27: 1, 4, 13-14 Jn 6: 1-15
MISSION AMIDST INTIMIDATION!
History has proven right what the learned and righteous Pharisee Gamaliel prophesied. The good news of salvation in Christ, which the Apostles preached, and their work of establishing the Kingdom, were in no way of human origin. They were of God. This also testifies to the presence and action of the Holy Spirit in the Church. Throughout history, Christians have suffered persecution from various anti-Christian forces. St. Athanasius, whom we remember today, was exiled five times. He has etched his name in perpetuity for his courageous defense of Christ’s divinity against the Arian heresy.
The contemporary Church is no exception to persecution. The media often highlights distressing news of false accusations against Christians, threats, slander, hate speech, harassment, anti-conversion laws, and sharp, biased comments – even at times from individuals within the judiciary. Today’s reading should inspire us to remain steadfast in our Christian mission and vocation, despite opposing forces, and to carry on with an undaunted spirit the work of the Kingdom. The Apostles, whom we hear about in today’s reading, serve as a model for us in this regard. In this sense, the entire book of the Acts of the Apostles, proclaimed during Eastertide, serves to nourish our Christian faith and foster hope. The Holy Spirit, through the liturgy of the Word, awakens and renews faith within us. The Catechism of the Catholic Church affirms this, stating, “By the saving word of God, faith . . . is nourished in the hearts of believers. By this faith, the congregation of the faithful begins and grows” (CCC No. 1102).
Gamaliel, a noble Pharisee who left a profound impact on St Paul, teaches us something more. He was not swayed by the opinion of the majority nor did he engage in calculated, hidden politics. He spoke objectively and courageously, upholding justice. He exercised responsible prudence and discretion. This is an example we must emulate as we fulfil our own respective Christian missions and vocations.
Response: There is one thing I ask of the Lord, to live in the house of the Lord.
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