Today is one of those difficult messages from Jesus. He is telling his disciples that they will face hardships and persecution. These instructions and warnings apply throughout the history of the Church. It is difficult for the world to understand the way of God. Sometimes there will be persecution, indifference to the Gospel’s message, or even a failure to understand it. Why should we be surprised that we could face difficulties today because of our faith? Genuine commitment to Christ always involves effort. Christian life inevitably involves nonconformity with anything that goes against the teachings of the Lord. This is a life that often involves choosing between fearlessness and betrayal. We should never shrink in the face of this challenge because we have God’s promise to give us the power, wisdom, and courage needed to deal with these demanding times humbly. We would be wise to remember that our words are not ours alone. Knowing that we are God’s messengers is especially important as we venture into a world that concurrently shuns religion and is desperate for what the “Spirit of our Father” has to say. Are we confident enough to allow the Spirit to say it through us?