Friday of the Sixth Week of Easter
When we suffer, it brings us to our own depths. When we endure certain pains, we feel them deeply. We cannot put up a front. Jesus tells His Disciples that they will suffer. He points to the example of a woman in labor who bears much pain so that her child will live. He tells us we must never aim to avoid suffering. We come to know our true selves in times of affliction.
Today St. Paul was seized and brought before the Roman official Gallio. When he wouldn’t hear the case against Paul, the angered crowd seized the Synagogue official and beat him pointlessly. Gallio showed no concern for the victim. Paul was wise to trust in the Lord. He stayed in Corinth for some time and then departed for Syria to spread the Gospel. He would not give in. Where does it take us to see this suffering? Obviously, we feel sympathy for the victim. We must also decide how we will respond to suffering. Do we hide or do we face it with as much strength and trust in God as we can?
Brothers and sisters, let us never tire of running the race. We have been promised the light and life of God. As the Easter Season winds down, let us not lose our momentum. Keep moving forward with the love of the Lord that will bring others closer to Christ. The Holy Spirit will give you the strength to endure. Amen.
Reflection by Br. Matthew Marie, OSB
Posted in Article for Easter, Daily Reflections