The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, October 21, 2006
Saturday of the Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 1:15-23
Psalm 8:2-3ab, 4-5, 6-7
Luke 12:8-12

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Do not worry about what your defense will be . . . ."

Evangelism is difficult. It is an awkward concept for Catholics, in large part due to the inertia of history. There was no real need for evangelism in much of the Christianized countries--it went without saying that everyone was a Catholic.

But by our baptism we are called to evangelize, and this passage gives us hope. Although Jesus is speaking here of the much more dire and hazardous situations of those who are imprisoned or otherwise punished for their faith, the same thing holds true for those of us who face the little tortures of speaking out for Him. When we are to testify, we will not need to worry about the words because the Holy Spirit, who knows all things, will give the words we need at the time.

So, the next time you are in a position to say something about Jesus to help another person, don't worry about how to approach it. Inwardly, ask the Holy Spirit's power and blessing on your words and move forward boldly. He will give you the words you need to move hearts that have remained unmoved. All you need to do is trust that it will be so.

- JuandelaCruz
(sriddle415 at yahoo dot com)