20th Week in Ordinary Time : Sunday 17th August 2025

Endurance is nurtured through time and much opposition. In Romans 5:3-5, St Paul writes that suffering produces endurance, which in turn builds character, and, ultimately, hope. Prophet Jeremiah was not exempted from threats and opposition. For speaking the truth, he was accused of weakening people’s trust. One of the issues that cause friction and division in the family is religion. Do you have a family member who left or joined Catholicism that caused family friction? Who is the victim? We are encouraged to talk about our faith, however the prudent way is to discern when and how to share the faith in dire circumstances.

Jesus warns us that He came to bring division among family members, it is unavoidable. The question is – do we trust a lasting relationship with Jesus in witnessing our faith with endurance in the family? Personally, I believe that we should not force our beliefs on others, even if they are our family members. Nor should family members harass our faith, for any true devotion of faith will respect others’ faith more. The more we try to force an issue, the more rebellion we will receive. Actions always speak louder than words and more often than not, touching people through our enduring examples and kind gestures is always better than mere imposition. True faith in Jesus will refine our relationships as agents of reconciliation. Distinction of a true disciple of Christ is being an agent of love, not hostility.

PRAYER: Jesus, grant that my relationships with others reflect an endurance of loving.