30 Jun 2024
Ask why (3)
"They called the apostles in, had them whipped, and ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus; and then they set them free.
As the apostles left the Council, they were happy, because God had considered them worthy to suffer disgrace for the sake of Jesus. And every day in the Temple and in people's homes they continued to teach and preach the Good News about Jesus the Messiah."
(Acts 5.40-42 GNB)
Why would the apostles be happy?
I do not think the suffering was what made the apostles happy. They suffered for the sake of Jesus while Jesus' suffering on earth was still fresh in their mind. And they were happy because God had considered them worthy to suffer also.
To follow Jesus is not always rosy and sunny. Sometimes it is thorny and stormy.
It is important is to always remember why we follow him.