The first reading gives us a glimpse at the culture of death, which we are seeing in our present times. People reject the concept of immortality and hence adopt the culture of living for today alone. “Might makes right” is the approach to fellow human beings. For this reason people persecute the just ones whose lives and existence are witnesses against them. In Christian theology, the second chapter of the book of Wisdom is considered a prophecy of the death of Christ. In this passage, we read how a godless group of people became the enemies of a righteous man. For Jesus, a
storm rages about him, and the winds of controversy grow violent. But Jesus does not alter his course. He keeps pointing at the wind. He refuses to compromise truth. We live in a world in which we may face hostility. Yet, through prayer, frequent reception of the sacraments, specially the Eucharist, we receive strength, courage and fortitude to become authentic disciples of Christ.

PRAYER: Abba Father, grant me strength and grace to be a joyful and authentic disciple. Amen.