Most of the rest of us may watch in wonder, from the comfort of our lazy lifestyles, and imagine that success came cheaply. But just 'turning up and hoping for the best' will not deliver success for any aspiring champion. The gold of success is mined deep in the dark of early morning training sessions, ruthless discipline and character-shaping determination. Aspiring champions are not looking for entertainment!
Jesus knew that the same was to be true for those who followed him seriously. He himself endured hardship and pain, on his way to the Cross. Why do we think our life might be easy?
St. Paul was of the same attitude, which helps to explain why his ministry was so effective. To his friends in Rome, he wrote about suffering and glory. ' And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later.' (Romans 8.17-18)
St. Paul was of the same attitude, which helps to explain why his ministry was so effective. To his friends in Rome, he wrote about suffering and glory. ' And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later.' (Romans 8.17-18)
Seeing this clearly may help us when we face troubles and trials of any sort. Instead of asking why the Lord has made our route so tough - why can't He smooth the path for us? - we should be asking for His strength that we may endure right through to the end. Our lazy and over-busy lifestyles do not equip us well for being tough disciples of Jesus. Toughness only comes when we have to endure discomfort for a long spell.
But we can be confident, because we see it worked out in Jesus' death & resurrection, that what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later.
This encourages me to keep going, in good company!
Best wishes,
Best wishes,
Richard
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