The Holy Martyrs Probus, Tarachus and Andronicus (284-305); Our Venerable Father Cosmas of Jerusalem, Bishop of Maium and Composer of Canons (760); Our Holy Father Martin the Compassionate, Bishop of Tours (397)
Philippians 1:12-20; Luke 5:33-39
Read Philippians 1:12-20
Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory forever!
But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the Gospel…
Not too long ago, I read an interview with one of our Bishops in Ukraine. He was reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic and the current full-scale Russian invasion and war in Ukraine. He said that while the former emptied Churches, the latter has filled them up again and even more so than before the pandemic. I, too, have witnessed how numerous Ukrainian newcomers who were very loosely connected to the Church have become much more so connected due to the war and the help many of our church communities have provided them.
We can sometimes view difficulties or struggles as moments when faith is being tested or as detriments to the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. St. Paul tells us that this sentiment could not be further from the truth. Rather, these moments become opportunities for the Gospel to be even better emphasized and preached. As we come face-to-face with struggles, may we pray for the perseverance to bear them patiently and thus be an example of discipleship to others. When we witness others undergoing these struggles, may we pray for them and point to their example of bearing witness to Christ.