WEEK 3: THE MEANING OF SUFFERING
Our God is a God who loves and suffers for us. In moments of our suffering, He is there right beside us, holding us and embracing us. Be conscious of our Lord at times of distress. Be vigilant, and persevere to the very end.
listen
think
Sometimes we misunderstand our own suffering, questioning it as though we are the only ones who suffer and forgetting that suffering is a universal experience.
And we may forget to ask ourselves, “What does God want me to learn through this suffering?” For every person, suffering has a purpose. God has suffered for us, and it’s okay to bring your sufferings to Him, because He understands your suffering more than you.
pray
Use this poem to inspire your prayers this week 🙂
The Benefits of Suffering
By suffering only can we know
The nature of the life we live;
The temper of our souls they show,
How true, how pure, the love we give.
To leave my love in doubt would be
No less disgrace than misery!
I welcome, then, with heart sincere,
The cross my Saviour bids me take;
No load, no trial, is severe,
That’s borne or suffered for His sake:
And thus my sorrows shall proclaim
A love that is worthy of [Jesus] name. Amen
Source: “Poems Every Catholic Should Know” Compiled by Joseph Pearce (Pg. 150) [Poem by: Jeanne Marie De La Motte-Guyon]
act
- Be aware of your suffering, and always bring it to our Lord
- Invoke the Lord at times of trial and hardship, and always redirect your mind and heart toward Him.
- Try to help others seek the Lord when they suffer, doing your best to see their experiences through a Christian lens.
Meet Isaac, Our Spiritual Guide for these Reflections
My name is Isaac Padriga. I was born in the Philippines and came to the states in 2006. One of my favorite daily activities is practicing filipino martial arts or Eskrima (fencing). It is basically shadow boxing with a stick 🙂 I enjoy the thoughtless flow of motion while performing and executing the various movements . My catholic faith is an important aspect of my life for it is the truth, mystery and guidance that helps me navigate through the ongoing uncertainties and challenges of the secular world. I also have two dogs, one mixed maltipoo/shih tzu, named Molly, and a mixed australian shepherd/labrador, named Copper. And finally, I also like to put two shots of espresso in my lemonade. -_-
Cal Poly Pomona Catholic Newman Club 