St. Paul’s epistles are filled with sage, spiritual advice to, “endure hardships” (2nd Timothy 4:5) and “rejoice in your sufferings” (Romans 5:3).

At the beginning of any New Year it is somewhat customary to think about, propose, and post positive, affirmative notions filled with hope. The reality is, however, that life is not always so optimistic, easy, or conducive. This is why St. Paul’s epistles are filled with sage, spiritual advice to, “endure hardships” (2nd Timothy 4:5) and “rejoice in your sufferings” (Romans 5:3).

Such phraseology is not intended to “sugarcoat” tradedies or even meant for us to accept difficulties, adversity, and suffering cheerfully, “grinning and bearing it,” but rather to submit to God’s will even when we cannot understand it or fathom its complexity. To have faith in God by trusting God, knowing that Christ is the ultimate example of someone who Himself endured adversity and hardship – voluntarily.

Thus, the suffering and tragedies that inevitably arise can often be a means and conduit leading us to God and strengthening our faith.

Fr. John