Friday, March 7, 2008

Cross

In the last two days, the Lord has told me four different ways that what I was hoping to be rescued from is my cross to bear... at least for now. I can relate to St. Paul and his thorn in the flesh. He prayed three times for its removal, but it was there to stay.

This evening at Stations of the Cross, Christ's words showed me that it is my (difficult) privilege to carry a sliver of His cross. His quiet strength in the face of tormentors can bring me courage if I let it. It will help me be silent when everything in me is crying out to do otherwise. My prayer is to wear this cross beautifully. May I not resist, but follow His example. The good news is that when St. Paul discovered his thorn would not be removed, he also found this: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." (II Corinthians 12:9)

7 comments:

Macile Hooper LeJeune said...

We all have a cross; some more visible than others. The valium (HL thinks) is keeping me sooooo tired. (HL went through that about 20 years ago; and since he had ... understands my tiredness even more than me. That is good; because he is never dizzy nor unsteady on his feet, so he cannot relate to that.) At least, most of the dizziness and nausea is gone. Merci, Sweet Jesus. Yes ... how I long to go to Mass; and certainly, our Sweet Jesus will make all things right before then. Merci for the prayers. DIEU TE BENISSE!
Cajun Sissy

Esther said...

There are so many who have much larger crosses than mine, and they humble me because they wear them so beautifully. One of the "large cross bearers" was used by the Lord to speak to me. I pray you feel better, Macile. May it be a temporary cross!

Christine said...

I hope you feel well enough for Mass 2 Macile. Praying you can recieve the Divine Physician and He will heal your vertigo.

Praying for you Esther as you go through this trial.

Adam the Catholic said...

You thought I was smart you got to check out this book. who ever wrote it is really really smart. It helps me to deal and understand my burdens. Ok, I'm lying. I wine like a little school girl, but I think it will help you.
"Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for your selves.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden light." Mat 11:28-30
And this one
"Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the holy Spirit that has been given to us."Rom 5:3-5
Adam

Esther said...

Christine Maggie O: Thanks for your prayers, especially that I will learn to be humble...

Adam: You ARE smart! The Bible verses are great; the one from St. Paul especially creates peace in me.

Anonymous said...

I too prayed that I could be relieved of a cross, and received the answer that I needed to carry it a while longer. But I felt such peace knowing that this was the will of God, and that I was following His plan. Our faith gives such meaning to our lives.

Esther said...

Anne: I will pray for strength for you as you carry your cross, especially that it will ultimately bless you.