Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles

This is Why We Struggle

“This is why we struggle…because we have placed our hope in the Living God…” ~1 Timothy 4:10

I have been working in “intentional” mission for much of my life. I say “intentional” because every baptized Christian is in mission by virtue of their acceptance of Jesus Christ. Intentional, to me, means following the call, inspired by the Holy Spirit, that I received at my baptism. My mission has taken me to so many places outside the comfort of my own “American” confines.

In my over 30 years of travels, I have witnessed Christians being persecuted both directly and indirectly. I am amazed at their witness to Christ in the face of certain suffering. I have even had Muslims and Buddhists put their lives at risk in order to shield me from harm. It makes me question the depths of my faith. How would I handle such oppression? Do I witness as St. Peter did? Romans 3:10 comes to mind when I face the challenges of our modern world: “There is no one righteous, not even one.” As today’s readings highlight for us, Paul was also disappointed in a world that falls furtther away from God.

As I read the scriptures — Gospels, Acts, and the Letters — I begin to have a deeper understanding of the challenges the Prophets, Jesus, and the first followers faced. It is never easy for someone who dedicates one’s life to building the Kingdom of God. God’s answer to the prophets was, “I am God, go and proclaim the Good News.” And Jesus himself said not to take anything extra with you. Not very assuring, is it? How many times do we read “…do not fear…” in the Bible? We must trust God, and that will be enough.

I am often asked why I stay in such a dangerous place like South Sudan. Indeed, I ask myself that very same question. There are Divinely inspired reasons why. The more chaos I experience, the closer to God I draw. That is why the lives of St. Peter and St. Paul resonate with me. They had strengths and weaknesses and met with overwhelming difficulties. Jesus mandated that they both to lead the Church despite their shortcomings. Am I, too, worthy? Can I do this despite my weaknesses?

I understand the Scriptures much better since mission. I now have a deeper understanding for the trials and tribulations St. Paul had to face. I have a much more developed sense of Jesus and what He did for us. For me, this is reason enough to stay and work in South Sudan. I haven’t yet come to the point of shedding my blood. The cross I am asked to bear isn’t nearly as heavy as what Jesus carried. Peter confessed Christ the Messiah. I try to do that too, with hope for an eternal life and a time where all the chaos will be set right. Hope springs eternal. Praise the Lord for the Grace to Proclaim.

Blessings and peace to all who struggle for the Kingdom of God.