Good people struggle

The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary today present some insight into the response of the world to the witness of Jesus and His followers. The Book of Acts tells of the lengthy stay of Paul in Corinth which Friar Jude Winkler dates to 51-52 CE. The Jews at the synagogue in Corinth react to expel Paul and his followers in a violent manner. Luke presents the decision of the Roman proconsol, Galio, not to become involved in religious disputes as wise judgement because the Christians are good citizens. The call to be "good citizens" is sometimes in tension with the point of view of the nation state that it is supreme god for people. The "world" of the Gospel of John consists of those who have rejected Jesus message and who rejoice at Jesus apparent defeat on the cross. The pain of the persecutions and exclusions of life is compared by John to birthing pain which is the precursor to the great joy of birth. Friar Jude reminds us of the truth that much spiritual growth comes in the throes of struggle. We persevere to the time of praise we trust will follow as our intimacy with the Divine deepens.