21 February 2023

Accept whatever befalls you,
and in times of humiliation be patient.
For gold is tested in the fire,
and those found acceptable, in the furnace of humiliation.
Trust in him, and he will help you;
make your ways straight, and hope in him.

From Ecclesiasticus 2:1-11, NRSV

In today’s reading, we are reminded of our duties to God and of the fact that those who seek to serve God are not promised an easy life. Scripture contains many examples of people who suffered greatly for their choice to trust in God. For many of these people, their suffering and sacrifice came before the promise of an after life in Heaven – their only consolation came from the knowledge that they were serving God.

• • How would you answer those who question why “the good” need to suffer ?
  • What can help us to persevere in the face of suffering?

Pray for those who suffer or are persecuted because of their religious beliefs.