From the Desk of Father John
August 17, 2025
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In the First Reading this week, we see the difficulties that the prophet Jeremiah endured for the sake of following God and speaking out against the evil that he witnessed. Jeremiah was thrown into a cistern and left to starve to death. In the midst of his suffering and because of his faithfulness, the Lord saved him and drew him out of the pit to which he had been thrown.
Following God and committing our lives to Him is not easy. However, God is always faithful and never abandons us. He brings great good out of terrible situations. In the Second Reading, St. Paul reminds us of the difficulties that we will face in our struggle to follow the teachings of Christ. St. Paul tells us, “Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith. For the sake of the joy that lay before him he endured the cross, despising its shame.” (Hebrews 12:1-2) This is a beautiful passage in which St. Paul exhorts Jewish Christians to hold fast to their faith even in the midst of trials and difficulties. The imperishable crown of glory is not far away, and we are not alone on the journey. There is a cloud of witnesses that surround us, the angels and saints.
If you have ever trained for, or run a race, whether it is a 1 mile run, 5k or half/full marathon, you know the difficulties involved and the training needed. A person is not able to immediately move from zero or little activity to being able to complete a 5 or 10 mile race. There are moments of suffering and tribulation that one needs to pass through before being able to complete such a race. The suffering that is endured during the training period and during running helps the person grow in self knowledge and strength over time. One is able to pass through such initial difficulty because of the hope of what will be achieved, namely finishing the race and gaining the medal! It is only over time and through consistent training that one is able to accomplish any worthwhile goal. This same commitment and goal setting is needed in our life of faith. St. Paul implores us not to seek a perishable crown but an imperishable one. If we are able to endure suffering here on earth for merely human gains or merit, how much more will we be able to endure suffering for the sake of Heavenly glory?
Jesus, out of love for us, suffered and died on the Cross. Then through the action of the Holy Spirit and the love of the Father, Christ rose again on the third day. He conquered sin and death. Do our lives reflect this great love that Our Lord has revealed to us through His Passion, Death and Resurrection? What is our response to the love God has shown to each and every one of us, and are we willing to endure momentary difficulties to store up for ourselves treasure in Heaven? In his First Letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul mentions, “What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and what has not entered the human heart, what God has prepared for those who love him.” (1 Cor 2:9) This week, may we not be discouraged in our faith walk, but for the sake of the Glory that awaits us, may we face joyfully whatever comes.