For my name’s sake.

Luke 21:12-15, But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name’s sake. This will be your opportunity to bear witness. Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer, for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict.

Jesus does not promise a life of pleasure, financial success or freedom for these disciples. They paid a price in proclaiming the gospel and in being his disciples, all but one of the faithful apostles martyred. This flies in the face those who say that the gospel puts an end to all of our problems and assures us of financial security. The good news was not received as such even in their day, and yet Jesus promised them that they would receive wisdom and the words to speak the truth that the gospel might go forth even when confronted by hostility. We have that same Holy Spirit to guide us today; are we faithful in proclaiming his good news despite the reception by others?

Give us the wisdom and the words of life that others may hear your good news and come to know you even in hostile situations!

ESV Lectionary