May 18 – Memorial for St. John I, Pope and Martyr
St. John (d. 526) was a priest in Rome, and became the 53rd pope in 523. Italy’s ruler then, Theodoric the Goth, was an Arian. For a while he left the Catholics alone, but in later life, he became suspicious of everyone, imagining conspiracies and attempts to seize his throne. He tried to involve Pope John in his political machinations. John led a delegation to Constantinople to negotiate with Emperor Justin I; he was the first pope to travel to Constantinople, and while there, crowned Justin. The mission was successful, but Theodoric thought John and Justin I had plotted against him. While returning to Rome, John was kidnapped and imprisoned by Theodoric’s soldiers. He died of thirst and starvation while in custody in Ravenna, Italy.
- Patron Saint Index
Acts 19:1-8
Jn 16:29-33
“I have told you all this so that you may find peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but be brave: I have conquered the world.”
“Be brave”. What does that look like, and what does that mean to you? Some would answer, “fearless, courageous, daring, willing to take risks.” Somehow, I don’t think that is what Jesus means when He says, “be brave”.
Jesus knows full well what we will each face in life. He warned us that there will be trouble in this world. Just because we are Christians and believe in Jesus, that does not mean that life will be a bed of roses, without strife. In fact, roses have thorns, and life certainly has its challenges no matter who we are, and whether we have Christ in our lives. In fact, Jesus said that there will be trouble, there will be suffering in our lives. The biggest difference between Christians and non-Christians in facing difficulties in life, is the person to whom we turn.
When Jesus tells His disciples (and us) to be brave, He does not mean that we must conquer our fears and face our difficulties on our own, relying on our strength. In fact, Jesus revealed these truths so that we could find peace in Him. When we are faced with challenges, difficulties, distresses or anxieties in various areas of life, we are asked to turn to God. The Christian way of boldness is to turn to God for help, counsel, and comfort in time of need. The Christian response is to trust God, no matter the circumstances. In trusting God, we find our peace. Even when we are anxious and find it hard to trust, we move forward knowing and trusting God is by our side, guiding and protecting us. That is bravery.
Does that mean everything will work out to our wishes? No. But everything will work out for our good according to God’s plan, for He has our good in mind. Our loving Father and Lord has a plan for us, for our good and not for our harm. We only need to trust Him instead of trusting in ourselves or our own abilities, even when things don’t work out as we plan. Because when we eventually look back, we will see that it is for our good.
Brothers and sisters, trusting in God when facing uncertainties requires us to be brave. Knowing that Jesus has conquered the world provides us with the confidence we need. Are you up for the challenge?
(Today’s OXYGEN by Winnie Kung)
Prayer: My Most Glorious Lord, by Your Cross and Resurrection, You have conquered the world and death. You have redeemed us and reconciled us to the Heavenly Father. Please grant us the peace that only You could give and help us to be brave in trusting You.
Thanksgiving: Most Loving Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us. Thank you for guiding us, always having our good in mind.
OXYGEN 
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