There is something about our lives as Christians that seems unfair and frustrating.
Reflecting on our lives as Christians in our society, we seem to find ourselves more in unfortunate situations than even the non Christians. The crosses we bear on a daily basis seem burdensome and unbearable, the lack of growth, and lack of success in our fields of life cannot be swept under the carpet too, and it breaks our hearts that we still suffer even as followers of Christ who have promised us life in abundance. (John 10:10)
It is true that Christ have come to give us life in abundance, but we can not continue to preach this prosperity gospel without reminding ourselves of the terms and conditions that Jesus gave us, namely; “anyone who wants to be a follower of mine, must take up his(her) cross and follow me…”(Matthew 16:24 )
However, this does not imply abandonment but a test of faith as St. Peter says that your faith must be tested like gold in the fire so that it may endure (1 Peter 1:17)
Consequent to the above-mentioned, St. Paul, in the first reading of today, addressed the Corinthians and reminded them of the necessity to endure in tribulations and be steadfast. Thus, he wrote: “…We are in difficulties on all sides, but never cornered; we see no answer to our problems, but never despair; we have been persecuted, but never deserted; knocked down, but never killed; always, wherever we may be, we carry with us in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus, too, may always be seen in our body….”
In every situation we find ourselves, we must remember that Jesus endured his own cross and his death, and we must believe that if we endured our own crosses as Christians, He who raised Jesus from the dead will raise us up with him and there will be thanksgiving.
We must believe in the working of God, be steadfast in the face of tribulations, and do not be a run-away Christian, then the transformative power of God will be visible in your life.
And as we celebrate the feast of St. Antony of Padua today, we pray that our lost hope be revived and our happiness be restored.
Peace be with you 🙏🏾
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