Be Steadfast in faith & Joyful in hope

“My son, if you aspire to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for an ordeal. Be sincere of heart, be steadfast, and do not be alarmed when disaster comes. Cling to him and do not leave him, so that you may be honored at the end of your days.
Whatever happens to you, accept it, and in the uncertainties of your humble state, be patient, since gold is tested in the fire, and chosen men in the furnace of humiliation.” (Sirach 2: 1 – 5).

Lord, through your word, you grant us the consolation of the truth. You teach us through your word that to serve you is not a constant party. There will be ordeals and disaster will come. You encourage us to be steadfast and patient. It is true that life is full of uncertainties. You know all about these and ask us to abandon ourselves to your loving providence. This message of hope could not have come to me at a better time. Thank you for it, Lord. Grant me the grace to be steadfast in faith and joyful in hope.