Today we see Paul is facing opposition in Corinth. In the midst of this difficulty, the Lord appears to him and says, "Do not be afraid, but speak and do not be silent." These words of encouragement affirm Paul in his vocation. As a result, he is inspired to go on teaching in Corinth for several months.

In the Gospel, Jesus is about to leave his friends. He knows that they will suffer after he goes away. Yet he tells them that they will meet again. When this happens, their sorrow will be transformed into joy, a joy that never ends.

Charles Lwanga lived in what is now Uganda. The local king began persecuting Christians and had the leading catechist killed. Strengthened by Christ, however, Charles boldly took up this catechist's role and continued to teach and baptize. On June 3, 1886, at the king's command, Charles and more than twenty other Christians from the king's court were wrapped in reed mats and burned alive.

Our lives may not be threatened. Yet, we do face conflicts. We do suffer. In each of the three situations above, Jesus encourages his followers with what they need to live out their vocations amidst difficulty. Am I in need of encouragement? Is there an aspect of my life that hungers for the Lord's affirmation?