Friday, August 1, 2014

Facing the Difficulties of Life

Dear Parishioners,

If you are having difficulties in your life and your morale is low and still sinking, the Bible has some reading just for you.

There is a long read and a short read. The long read is the Book of Job which tells how the godly Job is allowed to be tested by Satan. After unbelievable calamities are orchestrated by Satan on this good man, and he is tempted to curse God and die, Job remains peaceful, serene, and faithful to God. At the end of the story, Job receives greater blessings than he had at the beginning.

The short read is Paul’s letter to the Romans, Chapter 8. Over the past 4 weeks, we have heard parts of that chapter. The 1st week taught us that the Spirit of God dwells in us. What an awesome privilege that is, but with the privilege is the responsibility to live according to the Spirit and not the flesh (earthly desires). The 2nd week taught us the insignificance of present sufferings compared to the glory to be revealed in us. The 3rd week taught us that the Spirit in us helps us to pray. Last week, we learned that “God makes all things work together for the good of those who love him.” Even the bad things that happen to us, God will use for our good. This week we hear that nothing can separate us from the love of God. In other words, as long as we have God we have everything we need. We have it all. How awesome is that!

- Fr. Carl

“There is no one who cannot pray—and pray
at all times and in all places; by night or day, when
hard at work or resting; in the country, at home, or
when traveling.”
~ Thoughts of the Cure D’Ars