Fr Paul reads from the Gospel of Luke (12: 9-12) in which Jesus says, ‘if anyone openly declares themselves for me in the presence of others, the Son of Man will declare himself for them in the presence of God’s angels.’

This Gospel today really challenges us to reflect on our faith in God.  We are so blessed to live in a country where we enjoy the freedom to be able to practice our faith. Even here we are finding it increasing difficult as we are being questioned and challenged by all those around us.

Fr Paul says he think this is good because it makes us think.  It makes us try to understand what our faith means to us. It challenges us to question our belief in God and how we live our lives the way we do.

Fr Paul also says he knows that, sometimes, we can take our faith for granted and just wonder along and never really face the challenge of having to put our faith into words. He expresses gratitude for never having been in the situation where he has had to lay down his life for his faith as many have in other parts of the world have had to do.

Today, mindful of the challenge the Gospel gives us, Fr Paul asks, ‘Am I open to listening to what the Holy Spirit says? and then actively passing that message on”.