SPEECH, DIVINE ASSISTANCE DURING PERSECUTION
The divine assistance promised to God’s faithful during times of persecution is a recurring theme throughout Sacred Scripture, affirming God’s unwavering support for those who proclaim His word. This assurance is deeply rooted in both the Old and New Testaments, and continues to be a source of strength for Christians facing adversity today.
In the Book of Exodus, we witness God’s reassurance to Moses, who felt inadequate to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The Lord promised, “Now go, I will assist you in speaking and teach you what you are to say” (Ex 4:12). This divine assistance empowered Moses to confront Pharaoh and guide the Israelites to freedom.
The prophets, too, experienced this divine support. Jeremiah, called at a young age, received God’s assurance: “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ To whomever I send you, you shall go; whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you” (Jer 1:7-8). This promise sustained Jeremiah through his challenging ministry.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ extends this promise to His disciples. He assures them of the Holy Spirit’s guidance: “When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say. You will be given at that moment what you are to say. For it will not be you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you” (Mt 10:19-20).
The Acts of the Apostles provides numerous examples of this divine assistance in action. When Peter and John were brought before the Sanhedrin, “Then Peter, filled with the holy Spirit, answered them” (Acts 4:8). Their eloquence and boldness astonished their accusers, who recognized them as companions of Jesus.
REFLECTION
For us Christians today, this message of divine assistance during persecution offers both comfort and challenge. It reminds us that we are never alone in our witness to the Gospel. When we face opposition or ridicule for our faith, we can trust in the Holy Spirit’s guidance and strength.
However, this promise also calls us to be courageous in our proclamation of the truth. We are challenged to speak boldly, knowing that God will provide the words we need. As Pope Francis has often reminded us, we are called to be missionary disciples, bringing the joy of the Gospel to all corners of the world.
In conclusion, let us take heart in the knowledge that the same Spirit who empowered the prophets and apostles dwells within us. May we, like those who have gone before us, rely on this divine assistance as we strive to be faithful witnesses of Christ in our world today. As we face the challenges of our time, let us remember the words of St. Paul: “I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me” (Phil 4:13).