A Jesuit Catholic University
in Omaha, Nebraska, since 1878

[300] Acts 22:30; 23:6-11 Ps 16:1-2a+5, 7-8, 9-10, 11 John 17:20-26

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections

“Keep me safe, O God; you are my hope.” Ps 16: 1-2

How many times throughout the day do we find ourselves in positions where we do not speak our mind? How often have we remained neutral on a topic when we should have boldly claimed a side? How many times have we nodded passively along with our opinionated friends instead of speaking our truth?

In the first reading, Paul is brought before the Sanhedrin. Paul acknowledges both the Sadducees and Pharisees present and proclaims his “hope in the resurrection.” This statement immediately carved dividing lines in the Sanhedrin as the both groups began to argue. Later, God said to Paul, “Take courage. For just as you have borne witness to my cause in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness in Rome.” The Resurrection is a foundational principle in Christianity and Paul was not about to shy away from the controversy merely to avoid confrontation.

What are the other fundamental areas of Christianity: the sanctity of marriage, the vitality of human life. At what point do we recognize these pillars as non-negotiable truths and take a stand, despite the inevitable conflict, as Paul did?