In our first Scripture reading today, the Acts of the Apostles relates that Saint Paul is under house arrest in Rome and is still preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all who would listen.

The hope of Israel that Saint Paul speaks of is the resurrection of the dead. Saint Paul realizes that the Gentiles are ripe and ready to hear the Gospel message, but the Jews are not listening to him. He never quit and never gave up.

We, too, are called to evangelize and tell others of the hope in Jesus Christ and the promise of the resurrection. My wife and I live in a neighborhood where many do not attend a church or practice any faith. Many of their ancestors were Roman Catholic, but many have abandoned the faith. They have a variety of reasons why they gave up the faith of their parents and beyond.

However, trouble, crisis, illness, and suffering come to every household and home. Just as many sought Jesus to heal their illness, many today also seek healing and comfort. Many who have nowhere to turn but to Jesus seek out those who have had peace, joy, and hope during their trials.

My wife and I have had several neighbors approach us and ask for prayer for whatever trial they endure. We tell them that Jesus is always the answer – we must start our day with him, be with him throughout the day, and end our day with him.

Father Peter Julian Eymard said to many, “The love of Jesus is stronger than your sorrows.”

Prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, guide us to help others find faith and hope in you as Saint Paul did. In Jesus’ name. Amen.