Acts 14:5-18 / John 14:21-26
When the going gets tough, then it is also going to be rough.
It is not just a manner of speech, but when we meet with tough people, they may also use rough tactics.
In the face of tough and rough people, we would naturally want to avoid any trouble as well as any harm.
In the 1st reading, we read that when the opponents planned to attack Paul and Barnabas and to stone them, they came to know of it, and they went off for safety to Lyconia, where in the town, of Lystra and Derbe and in the surrounding country, they preached the Good News.
What is so amazing is that, when they had just escaped from mortal danger and should go into hiding and lie low, Paul and Barnabas immediately began preaching the Good News.
Maybe it can be said that when the going gets tough, it is tough who will keep going.
Paul and Barnabas showed what kept them going even when the going was rough and tough.
What kept them going is what Jesus mentioned in the gospel, ie. the Advocate, the Holy Spirit.
Yes, the Holy Spirit is our Advocate who supports, defends and protects us.
We must call on the Holy Spirit for strength and courage, especially when we meet with tough and rough people and situations.