Joy and Strength in the Face of Our Crosses

“Rejoicing in the LORD must be your strength!” // Nehemiah 8:10

I will never forget the day when my spiritual director looked me straight in the eyes and gently reminded me, “Rejoicing in the LORD must be your strength!” I was in the midst of intense suffering, and these words both convicted me and consoled my heart.

While the crosses in life help us grow in holiness, a subtle bitterness and self-reliance can creep into our hearts. It is easy to fall into the dangerous trap of complaining and grumbling. And while it is important to acknowledge our very real feelings, it is crucial to fight discouragement. We are not alone in this battle. Our hope is in the Lord!

Sisters, we are united as the Body of Christ. In today’s Gospel, Jesus returns to His synagogue in Nazareth and reads Isaiah’s prophecy. We hear how the anointed Body of Christ brings gladness, proclaims freedom, heals blindness, and removes oppression. Jesus knew what He was about, and we are invited into His mission as members of the mystical Body of Christ.

Jesus wants to give us the gift of His joy today. Christ desires that this joy will be our strength, that this joy will bring glorious freedom and profound healing. Jesus longs to strengthen our weary hearts.

I have found that the more this gladness takes deep root in my heart, the more I am strengthened to endure suffering. I am not afraid of the cross. Even on the darkest days, the light of Christ is the joy of my heart.

Let us pray with hope for each other, sister. May the joy of the Lord be our strength for every cross we will encounter today!

Jesus longs to strengthen our weary hearts. // Rose ColemanClick to tweet

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