the world hates you

First Reading: Psalm: Gospel:

1 John 3:13-18 Psalm 116:10-13, 16-17 John 15:12-17

1 John 3:13  Do not wonder, brethren, that the world hates you.

Pretty basic message today, but one that is tough to take.  Yes, the world hates us and in that we are blessed.

The problem is we too often want to be friends with the world in opposition to the will of God.  That doesn't mean that we are to go around hating and doing evil, or even having a chip on our shoulder.  It means that we are to stand up for what is right and what is true and not compromise that for the friendship of those who are perishing.

Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to be string enough to stand up to the world and live in truth.  Help me to trust and love you and not desire the friendship of the world.

Amen