21/03/2026
March 21, 2026
First Reading Jeremiah 11:18-20
Gospel John 7:40-53
Todayโs readings remind us of a powerful truth: God sees everythingโour goodness, our struggles, and even the hidden intentions of others.
Jeremiah was faithful, righteous, and obedientโyet he still faced betrayal and persecution. This reveals something difficult but real: being good does not exempt us from suffering.
Why do bad things happen to good people?
Because suffering is not a punishmentโit is often part of our mission.
Just like Jeremiah, and even Jesus in the Gospel, we may be misunderstood, rejected, or opposed. But this does not mean God has abandoned us. In fact, it may mean we are walking closely with Him.
Persecution is not the end of our storyโ
it is often the path that strengthens our faith.
When we feel attacked, judged, or hurt, we are invited to respond not with fear, but with trust:
"O Lord, my God, in You I take refugeโฆ You are my strength."
God knows our hearts.
God defends the righteous.
God is our refuge.
So today, let us not be discouraged by trials.
Instead, let us remain faithfulโknowing that God sees, God knows, and God will sustain us.
๐ Prayer๐๐
Lord, You are my refuge and my strength.
In times of trials and persecution, help me to remain faithful.
Remind me that You see all things and that You are always with me.
Give me courage to continue serving You with love and trust.
In Jesus' Name. Amen. ๐ค๐๐