1 June 2019
Memorial of Saint Justin, Martyr
Being a Christian requires work. Learning about the the teachings of Christ, the history of the Church, and the development of doctrine takes time and effort. However, and more importantly, developing a relationship with Jesus Christ is a task we must we must labor on everyday of our lives. Like any personal, human relationship that we value, whether that be with a parent, a child, a spouse, or a close friend, relationships require work, self-sacrifice, giving up selfish concerns for the care, well-being, and good of the other. The same labor and even more self-sacrifice is required to grow in our relationship with the Lord. This relationship will take time to develop. Some days will be better than others. We will feel that we are very close with the Lord at times while other times we may feel distant and lost. We must be patient with ourselves in the learning and growing process while continuing to trust in the Lord. Our readings today are about the growing process required for a relationship with the Lord. The Jew named Apollos, who grew up in Alexandria, was an eloquent speaker and zealous in his faith. Apparently, he traveled all around the area teaching about the Lord. And yet, he did not really know what he was preaching and teaching. He taught more about John the Baptist’s call for repentance than about Jesus Christ’s saving resurrection from the dead. Apollos needed to be taught and needed to take the time to grow. He made many mistakes. And yet, when Apollos was properly instructed and encouraged by the disciples and other teachers, “he gave great assistance to those who had come to believe through grace.” Likewise, in the Gospel, Jesus pointed out to his disciples, “Until now you have not asked anything in my name.” Even the disciples did not know how to pray as they ought. And yet, because they remained faithful to Christ, grew to love Christ in a deep and intimate relationship, and slowly learned how to pray through dependence and faith, the disciples came to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Let us remain faithful and trust that God is working on us, teaching us, and molding us to be his holy servants. Let us be willing to do the necessary work required for growing in love, love of our God and love of our neighbors.