10TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

If the Lord is God, follow him; if Baal, follow him.

Elijah could have felt incredibly discouraged. After all, he was just one person standing against so many who opposed the worship of God. He could have given in to the pressure he was under to turn away from his life of service to the Lord and his people. But this one man spoke out boldly and forcefully: “If the Lord is God, follow him!” (1 Kings 18:21).

It can be hard to persevere in faithfulness to God when we feel alone. When we feel as if we are the only one staying true to God’s word and to Church teaching, Elijah’s example invites us to have courage. He reminds us that we’re still called to speak out, even in times of great pressure.

Interestingly, Elijah didn’t respond to the people’s silence and weakness with criticism or condemnation. Instead, he led by example. And after the entire offering was burned up—meat, wood, water, and all—the people answered Elijah by proclaiming, “The Lord is God!” (1 Kings 18:39).

While we are not all called to be full-time prophets, our baptism gives us a share in the prophetic mission of Jesus. As prophets, we can speak on behalf of God. Sometimes this might involve offering words of comfort to people we know who are experiencing sadness or loss. Sometimes it might involve speaking words of hope to those experiencing discouragement or extended periods of suffering. And at other times, our prophetic calling might involve inviting someone to turn away from sin and to give a wholehearted yes to God.

As you bring the needs and situations of the people around you to the Lord, ask him to help you rejoice for the things that make his heart rejoice and to hurt for the things that make his heart hurt. Ask him as well to give you words that you can share with them. Then, look for opportunities to share those words.

Being a prophetic voice requires courage. It can be tempting to stay quiet as the people around Elijah did, but don’t let that happen. Embrace your prophetic calling, and help others to recognize that God is indeed worthy of all their trust.

“Holy Spirit, give me the courage and boldness to speak the truth of your love to everyone I meet.”

Psalm 16:1-2, 4-5, 8, 11
Matthew 5:17-19
1 Kings 18:20-39