Wednesday, May 4, 2022

 Wednesday of the Third Week of Easter

(Acts 8:1b-8; John 6:35-40)

 Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the president of Ukraine, may have had a small place in history if Russia had not invaded his country.  But it seems now that he will be remembered as a courageous defender of freedom whether or not the Ukrainians defeat the Russians.  Zelenskyy has refused to back down to the mighty Russian forces.  He has successfully appealed to the world for solidarity in the cause of national sovereignty.  There is a parallel here with what takes place in today’s first reading.

The Greek-speaking Jewish Christians have been expelled from Jerusalem.  Stephen’s diatribe against the temple set off a persecution against them but apparently not against the Hebrew-speaking church.  The oppression is not so much a threat to Church maintenance as it is a catalyst to its growth.  Powerful preachers like Philip will win converts, especially among non-Jews like the Samaritans.  The Church as a whole is beginning to fulfill its mission to the world.

Both Zelenskyy and the Greek-speaking Christians should inspire us to not surrender to defeatism when facing opposition.  Rather we should pray to God for courage, strength, and prudence to fulfill our destiny.  Of course, prayer is often accompanied by action.  We should pursue the struggle of justice and love while protecting our loved ones.