Mom4truth, by the trials of your life, the Lord is revealing how much He loves you. Is not your consciousness that of Christ in the garden? Was not His soul sorrowful, even unto death? This is an entirely appropriate mood for Lent. It is growth through suffering. Strength comes, like it or not, through trial and tribulation. Jesus cried out to His Father, both in the garden and on the cross, knowing Who His Father is! Offer your suffering up daily as a penance. For, if you come to the end of your life having suffered little, what will be your reward? If Christ suffered little, we would have little hope. We fast, pray and give alms in union with, and in solidarity with Christ. If the Lord gave us a well developed sense of justice, we would beg Him for more suffering. As it is, His mercy is so beyond our capabilities that we lose hope, falling back only upon the worldly consolation that we are accustomed to. Trust in Him. Rely on Him. What use is it if we thank Him only for the good? Even the Gentiles do as much. Thank Him for the evil and the good.
Loving and merciful Creator God, look with compassion upon Mom4truth as she walks with Christ in this Lenten journey. Bear her up when she stumbles and comfort her with Divine reassurance when she doubts. Graciously give her eyes which see far into her future, into a deepening, more mystical union with You. Incline Your ear to hear the intercession of our Lord Jesus, Who sits at Your Right Hand. May the prayers of the Angels and Saints rise to Your throne as does the smoke of incense, its pungent aroma conveying the true nature of her suffering. In each burden strengthen her, so that she may maintain her faith and store up treasure in Your Heavenly Kingdom. We ask this through Christ, our Lord, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God for ever and ever. Amen. Alleluia!
