“A servant is not more than his master.” Jn. 15:18-21

Following Jesus and making his friendship the driving force in our lives sometimes brings difficult consequences. Living in this world according to the Master’s teachings is not always a bed of roses because his criteria clash with those of the world. Enjoying the friendship of Jesus brings contradictions. That was the fate of the Master, and that was later experienced by the first followers of Jesus, and by thousands of witnesses throughout history and that continues to be repeated today. Perhaps we do not suffer prison and martyrdom like many Christians today, but sometimes, we do feel singled out as strange beings, for leading a life consistent with the gospel; “If the world hates you, know that it has hated Me before it hated you.” Let us pray for so many Christians who today suffer persecution because of their faith.