From the Pastor’s desk— October 9, 2022

This past week, many of the daily readings focused on the theme of perseverance. If we are honest with ourselves, perseverance is an area most of us can grow in

Giving up is far too easy. It’s often said, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going,” but how often do you live out this mantra? Do you respond to your challenges or let them overcome you and become stuck in self-doubt? Do you see your obstacles as chances to dive deeper into God’s grace, or do you instead say, “woe is me,” and become bitter for having to face difficulties?

God created you to be much stronger and resilient than you give yourself credit for! Through the Holy Spirit, you already have the strength and tools to overcome any challenge you may be facing. Remember, though our circumstances, emotions, and thoughts change, God is ever-present and ever persistent in loving, caring, and fighting for us. We tend to become impatient and fickle long before God does. How can you be more persistent this week?

Take a few minutes for prayer or reflection on ways you can increase your persistence in prayer, spiritual devotion, or behavior. If there are heavy challenges weighing on you this week, offer them up to Jesus in prayer. Don’t be afraid to ask God directly for what you need, even if it seems too big or too trivial. Close by reading the Scripture passage and listening to the song.   

“Without the burden of afflictions, it is impossible to reach the height of grace. The gift of grace increases as the struggles increase.”

– Saint Rose of Lima

With a heart for Mission,
Fr. Ray