May 12, 2020 Tuesday of the 5th week OF EASTER –A

Acts of the Apostles: 14:19-28

Psalm 145

John 14:27-31

They strengthened the spirits of the disciples and exhorted them to persevere in the faith Acts 14:22

Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid. John 14:27

Lord, your strong man Paul was nearly stoned to death in a city in what is now Turkey.  He didn’t let that ”little” problem slow him up. He continued to proclaim the good news to the Gentiles despite fierce opposition and danger. You told your disciples at the Last Supper not to be afraid but to persevere in what they had experienced with you: service and love.  You showed them that the suffering servant was the way to the kingdom. Sometimes today we don’t appreciate the value of joining our suffering to that of yours. During this pandemic many people are suffering greatly. Dear Jesus, instead of complaining they could unite their pain and inconvenience to that of yours. In that way suffering becomes a very powerful prayer that will be heard by our Father. I’m sure the martyrs St. Nereus and St. Achilleus did that as they suffered death for the faith. A good way to bear fruit in the crisis we face today is to spread the good news of hope and peace that you gave to the disciples the night before your death. Lord, may my suffering always be joined to yours on the cross.   Sts. Achilleus and Nereus pray for us.  Amen Alleluia