behind the scenes
Jesus "will not contend or cry out, nor will His voice be heard in the streets. The bruised reed He will not crush; the smoldering wick He will not quench until judgment is made victorious." —Matthew 12:19-20
There are many evil things going on behind the scenes right now. Family farmers, home owners, and many others are being victimized by subtle maneuvers behind the scenes (see Mi 2:1ff). Also, plots are being hatched (see Mt 12:14), people are being tortured, children are being aborted, and many other sins are being committed behind the scenes. This can be discouraging, but there's much more going on behind the scenes.
Jesus is peacefully, quietly, and gently working to apply the fruits of His redemption. If we are baptized into Jesus, our lives are hidden with Christ in God (Col 3:3). We in Christ are also living and working behind the scenes, and the smallest details of our lives are charged with power because we are God's children living in Him and part of the communion of saints. Great evils are taking place behind the scenes, but a greater grace is also hidden behind the scenes (see Rm 5:20-21). Therefore, we have every reason to be full of hope in the name of Jesus (Mt 12:21).
Praise the peaceful, quiet, gentle Jesus, Who is the all-powerful, invincible King of kings and Lord of lords enthroned forever at the right hand of the Father!
Prayer: Father, in the midst of evil fill me with hope.
Promise: "Here is My Servant Whom I have chosen, My loved One in Whom I delight. I will endow Him with My spirit." —Mt 12:18
Praise: Rita, though suffering serious physical hardships as well as the cross of loneliness, lives her life hidden in Jesus with absolute trust that He will work out every detail of her life.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape on Developing A Deep Personal Relationship with Jesus on audio AV 52-1 or video V-52.)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Robert A. Stricker, December 13, 2003
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 18, 2003