SAINT GEORGE, MARTYR (OPTIONAL MEMORIAL)

He rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart. 

Isn’t it astounding to think that the good news of Jesus Christ spread primarily because of persecution? As awful as it was, the persecution of the early Christians actually led to many people—both Jews and Gentiles—hearing the good news for the first time.

For those who stayed behind in Jerusalem, any sense of discouragement at the flight of so many brothers and sisters was short-lived when they learned how that flight caused a “great number” to believe in the Lord (Acts 11:21). In today’s first reading, we hear about Barnabas, a disciple in Jerusalem, who traveled to Antioch and “rejoiced” when he saw how many people had come to faith in Christ (11:23).

The truth is, God can use even the most difficult challenges for good—both your good and the good of others. Many of the early Christians moved from everything they had ever known and had to start over—with new jobs and new homes—and adapt to new cultural norms (Acts 11:19). But as they accepted all these dramatic changes, they kept what was most precious to them: their faith. They kept “preaching the word” and “proclaiming the Lord Jesus” to the people they met (11:19, 20).

When facing job loss, the death of a loved one, or an unexpected medical condition, it can be easy to get discouraged. But what if God’s plans include working to bring about good in the midst of those challenging situations? A hospital stay, for example, could lead to an opportunity to share your testimony with the medical staff or other patients. A job loss could lead to a new position more suited to your gifts. Or perhaps the loss of one relationship leads to a new season of friendship in another.

Wherever you find yourself today, hold onto your faith that the Lord is with you. Your hope could attract people to you and lead to an opportunity to share the treasure that you hold—the reality of Jesus’ life and love! God is faithful; he can bring good out of any situation.

“Lord, open my eyes to see and share your goodness and truth in every season of my life.”

Acts 11:19-26
Psalm 87:1-7
John 10:22-30