compensate for the pain that we endure. Justice requires that the evil we endure in this life be corrected and healed. The saints lived with a lively hope for their reward. Yet, the joy of being Catholic is that our reward is not something, but Someone. Jesus is our reward, who comes from Heaven to earth, to our mouths in Holy Communion. Everything we endure for His sake is rewarded by His presence Mass. Each self-emptying sacrifice prepares us to receive more of His love in Holy Communion. How lively is your hope for reward in heaven? How can you connect the sacrifices of daily life with preparation for receiving Jesus in Holy Communion? 3. “But woe to you...” St. Luke’s Gospel is known for its emphasis upon Jesus’ mercy for sinners. Yet, his Gospel alone includes these woes – warnings of judgment – for those who seek happiness exclusively in the present life. Yet, Jesus’ woes are important as guardrails along the path to happiness. The temptation to settle for happiness now – rather than the promise of happiness given in the beatitudes – is ever before us. Remembering His strong woes help provide a buffer before the multitude of advertisements that want us to believe that we can have such happiness now if we are rich, filled, laughing, and esteemed by others. What looks like happiness now fades quickly like the trees in the lava waste. But what looks like misery opens us up to the treasures of His love in Holy Communion. We ought not trade ephemeral pleasures for the true joy of His friendship. Where do you tend to seek happiness according to the world’s standards? What temptations are more frequent for you? By Fr. Thaddaeus Lancton, MIC Author Stepping on the Serpent: A Journey of Trust with Mary Shining in Spotless Splendor: Consecration to the Immaculate Conception Available on Google Play and IOS App Store
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjI2Mw==