Persecution Paradox Persists

Paul outlines the events of his ministry to Timothy in one of the texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary, today. The theme of the difficulty and opposition which the believers will experience is throughout the texts. The psalmist prays thanksgiving for the peace known by the faithful who are persecuted by princes. Mark relates another verbal conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities. This time he cleverly redirects their assertions about the nature of the Messiah. The great paradox of the words of peace and love and discontent, friction and persecution being present together is a continuing effect of the stirring of the indwelling Spirit by the Divine Presence.