Readings: Acts 22:30,23:6-11, Ps. 16:1-2,5,7-11, John 17:20-26
“I do not pray for these only, but also for those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one; even as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee.” (John 17:20-21)
In today’s first reading, Paul is before a tribunal. He knows that he is on trial to preach the Gospel. In his farewell speech, we read a few days ago, Paul prophesied, saying: “The Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and persecutions are waiting for me.” (Acts 20:23) Bearing witness for Jesus is carrying a cross; it comes with its unique challenges.
Although Jesus describes us as sheep amid wolves (we are in the world, but the world hates us because we don’t belong to this world), Jesus also advised us to be as wise as serpents and as innocent as doves. (Cf. Matthew 10:16) Being a Christian does not mean that you should be suicidal. The fact that you know the world hates you does not mean you should freely give them your head to cut. You must use the common sense that God put into your head.
When Paul stood before the tribunal, he immediately noticed a severe division between the camps of those who brought him to trial. Applying the wisdom of a serpent and the innocence of a dove, Paul decided to take advantage of the division between the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Paul introduced himself as a Pharisee who was on trial because of the issue of the resurrection of the dead. The moment he said this, there was an uproar in the assembly.
Paul could no longer be tried because his enemies were busy fighting a war of words. The principle at play here is called ‘divide and rule.’ The British colonialists used it to conquer us in Africa. They emphasised our differences, made us hate each other, and then pretended to help us settle our disputes, thereby making themselves our rulers.
We cannot pray or worship the same way or hold the same doctrines, but we must love one another. No wonder in today’s Gospel passage, Jesus prayed fervently: “May they all be one... so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” Disunity is a scandal. If you cannot love your neighbour as yourself just because this neighbour is attending a different church, it means you don’t even know Christ at all.
Today, we remember St. Boniface of Mainz. Boniface (Originally named Winfrith) was born around 675. He was highly educated and became a respected scholar and teacher. Pope Gregory II entrusted him with a mission to Thuringia, Germany, and bestowed upon him the name Boniface on May 15, 1719. With the Pope’s approval, he became a bishop and took on the daunting task of converting local chieftains and helping people move away from their traditional beliefs.
A significant moment in his mission was when he cut down Thor’s sacred oak without harm, demonstrating the power of the Christian God. At the age of 73, Boniface embarked on a final mission to Friesland. In 754, he and his companions were martyred by hostile forces. Known as the Apostle of Germany, Boniface not only spread Christianity but also introduced Roman Christian civilisation to the area. Saint Boniface teaches us the importance of seeking guidance and being well-prepared for the missions we undertake.
Let us pray: Come, Holy Spirit, fill our hearts, and enkindle in us your Sacred Fire. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint Boniface, Bishop, Martyr. Liturgical Colour: Red. Bible Study: Acts 22:30,23:6-11, Ps. 16:1-2,5,7-11, John 17:20-26).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu