Tuesday 29 April 2014

7th Sunday of Easter Year A

What does the word "glory" mean to you? For some, it could mean to become famous, to be popular, to be accepted publically as someone important or significant, or perhaps to have a good name. For others, it may be to be in a position where people would admire, praise and look up to you, and perhaps treat you as a role model or a VIP. But what is the Christian understanding of glory?

To glorify as a Christian means to be willing to embrace the cross. The cross to some may be a symbol of shame, rejection and death but for us Christians, it is a symbol of victory, glory and life. When we are going through suffering, rejection, persecution, or even faced with the possibility of being put to death, we are glorifying God and we are experiencing true glory. St. Peter in today's second reading writes: "Rejoice to the extent that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that when his glory is revealed you may also rejoice exultantly. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you." How many of us can happily, truly and wholeheartedly rejoice in such a situation?

Today, if you are suffering because of your faith, rejoice and be glad. St. Peter reminds us that "whoever is made to suffer as a Christian should not be ashamed but glorify God because of the name." Being glorified in Christ is not about how great or wonderful we are, but about our perseverence, commitment and enthusiasm in bringing the Good News to all, even if we are to suffer. Ultimately, our glory is not of this world and let us rejoice and be glad, for God is there to help us and lead us back to Him.

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