May 28, 2020 Thursday of the 7th Week of Easter—A
Acts of the Apostles: 22:30; 23:6-11
Psalm 16
John 17:20-26
“I am on trial for hope in the resurrection of the dead.” Acts 23:6
I set the Lord ever before me; with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed. Ps. 16:8
Lord Jesus, your disciple Paul was under arrest and on trial for being faithful to his calling by spreading the good news of salvation and the offer of new life by your resurrection. Imagine being on trial for being hopeful! I guess that even today there is such a division in our world that having hope can be a crime. Your message the final night with your apostles was all about hope as you prayed to our Father for them and for us. Today’s psalm verses proclaim hope and encouragement. Maybe these verses were on Paul’s mind as he stood strong before those who wanted him dead. Lord, as we look for God’s will and intention in this pandemic we too must hold on firmly to the hope that you have all things under control. As it seems our world is coming apart those who hope in you and look for kindness and compassion around them will not be disturbed. Nurses and doctors are putting their own lives on the line as they treat the infected. Neighbors are helping the unemployed with food and support. Thank you, Lord, for lifting our spirits with your word. Amen Alleluia