DECEMBER 2021
THURSDAY DAY 16
ENDURING LONG-LASTING DIFFICULTIES
Scripture Reading: Job 19:25-27
Many may agree to bear a burden for a while, but not many will bear it indefinitely. Some hardships are short-term, while others last much longer. In the case of these long-lasting difficulties, we must not only accept tribulation, but be “patient in tribulation.” It may be a long time (at least from our perspective) before rest and relief can be enjoyed. Job is a good example here. The things he suffered are terrible. But at the worst of his ordeal, he had no idea how long it would go on. It might have lasted the rest of his life! As we read Job’s story, we know that his burden was eventually lifted, but he did not know that while he was suffering. His steadfastness in the midst of suffering is all the more amazing in that, for all he knew, it could have been indefinite. He was willing to endure whatever was necessary for however long it took to see God’s face (Job 19:25-27).
God may not explicitly tell us how long the difficulty would last. I find myself reading Hebrews more often these days. Its message is that we need to accept whatever problems we have to be dealt with for however long it takes to get to heaven. “Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward,” the writer said. “For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise” (Hebrews 10:35‐36). The promise will surely come, but it may not come very soon. So let us not dictate to God the terms of our service to Him. He asks of us an unconditional commitment to serve under any circumstances. When our service involves difficulty, as it often will, let us endure. Even when we can’t see the end, let us still endure. “Patience: accepting a difficult situation without giving God a deadline to remove it” (Bill Gothard).
MASS: VIOLET: ST. ADELAIDE Is.541-10; Ps 30:2 and 4. 5-6, 11-12a and 13b (R.2a) Accl: Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight; all flesh shall see the salvation of God Gospel Lk 7:24-30
Prayer Point:
1. Dear heavenly Father, please give me strength when I am weak, love when I feel forsaken, courage when I am afraid, wisdom when I feel foolish, comfort when I am alone, hope when I feel rejected, and peace when I am in turmoil. Father, strengthen me by Your Spirit. Grant me the fortitude to withstand the slings of the enemy. Make me strong, Mighty God! Make me courageous, God of Heaven! In the face of new challenges, I will trust You, grant the grace to endure trials and tribulations.
Exercise: Reflect on John 16:33
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: Prayerfully plan to partake in the DSD 2022 21-Day fasting, STARTING ON MONDAY 3RD TO WEDNESDAY 26TH JANUARY, 2022. General round off will be from WEDNESDAY 26TH TO FRIDAY 28TH (VIGIL) JANUARY, 2022. All DSD users are encouraged to organize and be part of the daily fasting and general round off in their parishes/Dioceses/localities/offices/market places/schools with the approval of your ecclesia and civil authorities. For inquiry: Call 07038447934 or 08112816095
Meditation: Romans 8:18