The Gospel of Luke, chapter 9:24

The followers of Jesus can expect to suffer in this life; they can expect to lose their lives as they have lived them in order to save themselves. No great goal has ever been achieved without sacrifice. The greatest goal in this life is to save your soul and get to heaven. What makes the suffering of Christians bearable is that it will soon pass and the pain will turn to joy. We also know that the suffering involved in living a good life is not futile. In fact, it is entirely possible for the true Christian to experience inner joy and contentment in spite of suffering. This inner joy and contentment is described in the Gospel as peace; that is, peace of mind and peace of soul.

The story about Jesus, who slept through the storm, while the disciples who, “lacking in faith,” were terrified of the situation they were in, is a story about faith and fear. Life is a series of ups and downs; a story of successes and failures; of joys and sorrows. Faith in Jesus helps us to hold our cool when the going gets tough, to stay calm and trust in God when problems seem overpowering. Jesus did not promise His followers a rose garden in this life, but He did promise them the security and calmness of faith which would bring them safely through the temptations and evils of the world. He promised everyone who “loses his life” for His sake, a new and better life.

When everything is going well; when we seem to move along as if transported on a flowery bed of ease; it is convenient to believe in a benign and caring God who watches over us. It is in those times of crisis and suffering, when our faith is put to the test; when we are called upon to share the cross of Jesus; when our confidence is challenged; that we begin to understand what it means to be a believer in Jesus and a true disciple.

Jesus gives us the power to save our lives and to overcome the powers of evil. No matter what the future holds in store for us; no matter what problems we have to face; we can confidently depend on Jesus, who as the way, the truth and the light, can lead us safely home.

May your faith make you whole.

Fr. Hugh Duffy

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