Readings:
2 Corinthians 4:7-15
Matthew 20:20-28
We are only earthen ware jars that hold this treasure, to make it clear that such an overwhelming power comes from God and not from us.
We are in difficulties on all sides, but never cornered, we see no answer to our problems but never despair, we have been persecuted but never deserted, knocked down, but never killed, always where ever we may be we carry in our body the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus too, may always be seen in our body.
This could be a good summary of our Christian life and vocation. It was certainly St Paul’s experience. Christ is our power. Christ is our strength. Christ is our guide. Christ is the one in whom we place our trust.
James and his brother John were mending their when Jesus call them to follow him. To the challenge can you drink the cup that I am going to drink. They replied, ’We can.’ James was beheaded by Herod Agrippa in about 42 AD
Let us always celebrate the power of God within us, and take up the cup that we must drink: Trusting in the Lord alone.
Fr Peter Addicoat CP is parish priest and community leader of our St Joseph’s parish/community in Hobart Tasmania.