Today, our pilgrimage has visited first Patmos and now have just arrived at Ephesus. In both of these cities, the first evangelists were tested when they shared their faith. John was a prisoner on Patmos when he received the revelation from God and composed the last book of the bible as the Spirit led him. Paul stayed in Ephesus longer than any other city and preached and taught for several years. While in Ephesus, he was threatened by the silversmiths who made their living selling idols of the goddess Artemis.

Both early church leaders found their path difficult and challenging but both remained faithful to God's calling on their lives. In face of hardship, they trusted God's faithfulness to sustain and equip them. They found that behind their problems, God had a purpose.

On this Sunday morning, as we worshiped beside the cave where St John composed the Book of Revelation during his imprisonment, we were reminded that God can still be trusted. Our only challenge is to remain open and receptive, letting God's spirit give us strength.