Sirach 2:1-11
My son, when you come to serve the LORD,
stand in justice and fear,
prepare yourself for trials.
Be sincere of heart and steadfast,
incline your ear and receive the word of understanding,
undisturbed in time of adversity.
Wait on God, with patience, cling to him, forsake him not;
thus will you be wise in all your ways.
Accept whatever befalls you,
when sorrowful, be steadfast,
and in crushing misfortune be patient;
For in fire gold and silver are tested,
and worthy people in the crucible of humiliation.
Trust God and God will help you;
trust in him, and he will direct your way;
keep his fear and grow old therein.
You who fear the LORD, wait for his mercy,
turn not away lest you fall.
You who fear the LORD, trust him,
and your reward will not be lost.
You who fear the LORD, hope for good things,
for lasting joy and mercy.
You who fear the LORD, love him,
and your hearts will be enlightened.
Study the generations long past and understand;
has anyone hoped in the LORD and been disappointed?
Has anyone persevered in his commandments and been forsaken?
has anyone called upon him and been rebuffed?
Compassionate and merciful is the LORD;
he forgives sins, he saves in time of trouble
and he is a protector to all who seek him in truth.
Dawg's thought:
Today's prayer intention is for those who are pregnant, especially for my brother's wife who is on bed rest due to concerns with their baby.
Yesterday as I was driving, I was thinking about how nobody chooses to suffer, but for the sake of a greater good, the suffering that is endured is not only bearable, but desired.
For the Christian, the hope of "The Risen Christ" should outweigh the desires we have on this earth that cause us unnecessary suffering. Satan lies to put things out of order so that we choose the unnecessary suffering over the redemptive truth. Today's reading does its part in pointing us back to Truth, reminding us that there will be trials, but God is always faithful.
Blessed are you who suffer! Blessed are you who gladly accept trails with gratitude in light of the greater hope of Christ, Our Lord. Take care and God Bless.
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