A film called ‘Paul apostle of Christ’ portrayed the friendship between St Luke and St Paul. It shows how Luke visited Paul in prison and encouraged him to tell the story of his journey which became the basis of the Acts of Apostles. Numerous times Paul mentions Luke and says he is the only person who is loyal, others have abandoned him. Jesus appoints and sends 72 in pairs because none of us can journey alone. We need friends to support us in faith when we are faced with challenges so that we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus alone. Paul had Luke to pray with him and for him during his darkest moments. When the early Christians were persecuted brutally, the only way they could witness to Jesus was by coming together and strengthening one another. Jesus sends the disciples and instructs them to gather those with whom they could pray together and be strengthened because the kingdom of God is at hand. In Christ, we will never be alone.

PRAYER: Abba Father, our strength comes only from you. Help us to trust you. Amen.