“When they take you before synagogues and before rulers and authorities,
do not worry about how or what your defense will be
or about what you are to say. 
For the Holy Spirit will teach you at that moment what you should say.”

Luke 12:11-12

Luke 12:8-12

Reflection

Jesus tells us today that depending on if we acknowledge him or not, our answer will determine if we are acknowledged before God. Yet another interesting part of this Gospel is Jesus telling the people that when they are taken in front of various authorities to be tried for their faith, they shouldn’t worry about what to say, for the Holy Spirit will teach them at that moment.

Jesus doesn’t tell the people that such persecution is hypothetical; it is entirely a reality. We certainly experience this today. Many times, we are “taken to court” before the world for our religious beliefs. It may not always be publicly, but perhaps with a close friend, family member, or coworker. At such times when we are questioned and accused about a particular matter, it can be difficult to know what to say.

But fear not, for the Holy Spirit will guide your words if you let him. When you find yourself in such a situation, take a moment before responding. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance in your speech, and it will be granted. In the face of opposition, do not become fearful and deny Christ or his Church. Let the truth of Christ be heard.

Ask for the grace to rely on the Holy Spirit more often, especially during times of difficulty and persecution.

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Saint of the Day

Sts. John de Brébeuf (1593 – 1649) and Isaac Jogues (1607 – 1646)

Jesuit missionaries, these two priests preached the Gospel to the Huron people in Canada, and were both tortured and martyred for their faith.

St. John and St. Isaac, pray for us!