Whenever the Word of God is proclaimed, there will be some people who resist and turn away. Sometimes the bearer of the good news will even be attacked. Even today there are many Christians who resist the call to conversion of heart. That should not discourage us, for there are also many who are intrigued and attracted to the light. Focus on the ones who receive it joyfully, and as Paul and Barnabas, accept whatever persecution or negativity that you receive joyfully. It means you are doing something right!

Jesus dwells in the Father and the Father dwells in him. They are in total harmony. Elsewhere in the Gospel of John, Jesus promised his followers - those who abide in him and walk in love - both he and the Father would dwell within them. We are invited to share in the life of the Blessed Trinity, and we can begin this experience now even as we live on this earth. If we are that closely united with Jesus and the Father, it should not surprise us if Jesus does for us whatever we ask. But that is the key - we are only united with him when our lives are a testimony to selfless love and when we are filled with the Spirit. Jesus has promised his followers so much - let us not be fainthearted in asking for what we need. Our faith is not only about going to heaven, it is also about being in heaven now.