Memorial of Sts. Cyril, monk, and Methodius, bishop
In the first reading, we hear St. James exhort the Jews dwelling in the diaspora to be patient when they encounter various trials. Not only does he encourage patience, but he takes his advice a step further to the point of encouraging rejoicing when those trials are encountered. To our modern ears, we may be shocked when we are told to rejoice when we suffer. Suffering by nature is painful, inconvenient, and unwanted. So why rejoice when encountering suffering and trials?
St. James gives us the answer further in the reading. Suffering joyfully produces patience and endurance, two virtues that greatly aid us on our spiritual journey. Furthermore, joyfully suffering helps us to remember a very important fact. God, who is the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, greatly loves us and wants to give us the graces that will make us perfect. He gives us what we need, when we need it, so that we may be open to receiving His holiness. Let us strive always to fully trust in God’s love for us, even in our suffering, so that we may become who He made us to be.
Reflection by Noah, seminarian
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections