Growing Pains in Faith. By: C.C.

"Trials and tribulations offer us a chance to make reparation for our past faults and sins. On such occasions the Lord comes to us like a physician to heal the wounds left by our sins. Tribulation is the divine medicine."
(St. Augustine of Hippo)

     It is difficult in times of tribulation to remain in peace. No matter how faithfully we live our lives, how many prayers we pray, or Masses we attend- there is a spiritual drought that can often plague us along the spiritual journey. The very thought of being open to receiving these words from our beloved Saint during our trials may potentially "rattle" us all the more as we struggle to have even a single moment of peace and calmness.
  Despite the difficulties we may face amidst our storms of life, St Augustine offers us a very sensible perspective on tribulation. By humbling ourselves before God we are able to view our trials as an opportunity for reparation of our past sins. These moments present us with the chance of growing in virtue and becoming more who we are created to be.
   In making a simple choice to drawn nearer toward our Lord and not become boggled down in whatever it is that we are facing, we allow ourselves to be receptive vessels to the love, grace, and mercy of our Heavenly Father. It is in this way that we can prosper in our relationship with God. 
   Each of us will face tribulation; this is the unavoidable truth of our human condition. As Catholics and Christians (followers of the Cross) we are also aware of the presence of these trials as a means of spiritual growth and purification. May we each come to view tribulation as divine medicine and trust in the love of our Lord to bring us through.
   Lord tonight I pray for those who are facing challenges. Provide them with the strength, courage, and faith to reach for You amidst their trials. Help us to see Your loving hand upon each and every event of our lives. May we always praise You and glorify You, even when we feel that we are being overcome by our own Cross. May we reflect upon the sufferings of Christ and through this meet our Blessed Mother Mary at the foot of the Cross who understands our deepest pains, fears, and sorrows. Guide us in faith Lord to live with hope and trust for the goodness that only comes through living our lives completely and selflessly for You. Thank You for Your blessings and Your love. Thank you for calling us from sin and leading us toward union with You. Amen (C.C.)