20-04-24 Keteguhan Iman: Tetap Bersama Yesus Apapun Yang Terjadi

Saturday 3rd week of Easter "Jn 6:60-69" Many of his disciples, when they heard it, said, "This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?"...After this many of his disciples drew back and no longer went about with him. Jesus said to the twelve, "Do you also wish to go away?" Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life; and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God." The sixth chapter of St John's Gospel ends like this. It could have ended: "many of his disciples drew back and no longer went about with him." But that is not the end. No. It finishes on a high note: 'Jesus said to the twelve, "Do you also wish to go away?"' And Peter gave the answer for all those Christians who, throughout history, have decided to stay with Jesus no matter what. We could translate his answer from ancient Aramaic into modern English: 'No, no way! Absolutely not!' Perseverance is the virtue that allows us to be steady, persistent and loyal in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement. Where there are obstacles, perseverance is needed. And saints have had tons of both. Of course there have been people who haven't been faithful and have left Our Lord. But that has only been a stimulus for saints to be holier. When St Peter saw that multitude leaving Jesus, he decided to stay. And sure enough, he did. He made mistakes, like on Good Friday, but he died crucified upside down, faithful, loyal. St Maximillian Kolbe had decided to leave the seminary when his mum visited him to explain that his brother wanted to join the seminary too. As you may know, he persevered and became a martyr. A young priest was moved when chatting with a sixteen-year-old lad. He had decided at a very young age to follow God in a life of celibacy. Many of his best friends also joined him in his vocation. But over time all his friends left that vocation to live mundane lives. "They have gone! All of them!" said the boy, weeping, "they have left me alone." Then he took the crucifix that was in front of him in his hands, and looked the priest in the eyes. The priest was speechless when he saw tears streaming down the lad's cheeks and heard him say, "But I will NOT leave Him alone. I will NOT! I'd rather die." Mother most Faithful, pray for us!