Faith explained through sacred history

Acts 13:13-25, Jn 13:16-20. A providential line of purpose stretches through Israel’s history and today's first reading gives a clue to understanding this Sacred History to better explain our faith. This is to teach us that we must always look for continuity between what God did in the past, our present circumstances and relate past events as recorded in the Gospel to our present day life. While preaching in Pisidian Antioch, Paul listed high points of Israel’s history, with a focus on Moses, David and John the Baptist, leading ultimately to Jesus. Israel’s long history from its beginnings to Jesus of Nazareth, saw many disruptions and rebirths. They were oppressed in Egypt and their entry to the land of freedom was delayed for forty years. Even when Palestine was won by conquest, it took centuries before they could hold it securely, under a monarchy. Their first king, Saul, was deposed; and centuries later David’s dynasty also disappeared.

The series of defeat and renewal continued within the life of Jesus and His Church. Many disruptions cut across the line of continuity in history. However, the fierce opposition to Jesus could not deflect the plans of God: “that you may believe that I AM.” God moves in ways not anticipated by His people. With the example of Jesus and Paul, we turn to God in prayer and realize from the start it is God who has directed all the events. Then we do our best and can be inwardly at peace. Acknowledging our Lord before people is so vital in today's Gospel, that the Lord attaches a blessing to it: “I also will acknowledge him before my Father who is in heaven."

May the Lord be the light of our lives and fill us with His Spirit! Amen!! Good morning and have a wonderful day!!!