Monday 25^th August – Monday of week 21 of the year

Reflection: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-5, 11-12

PERSEVERANCE

Mount Everest the tallest mountain in the world was never climbed in a day. Those who attempted to climb its treacherous slopes spend months and even years training. Sometimes they fail, other times they succeeded. From one slope to another they keep on till they got to the top. So also is our own journey to eternity. The path we are treading is narrow and rough, filled with many ups and downs; with treacherous slopes and deep valleys. Yet ahead of it all lies the ‘Crown’ for those who endure.

Dear friends, to gain victory we must be ready to fight the good fight of faith. Without fighting we cannot obtain the crown of glory which God has in store for us (2 Timothy 4:7-8). As challenges come in the process of striving towards achieving set goals; likewise anyone who has determined to serve God must be prepared for times of trials. We must keep our hearts upright and remain resolute; and not be upset in time of adversity. We must accept all that happens to us with patience; for as gold is tested in the crucible of fire, so those acceptable to God are tested in the crucible of humiliation. For there is no ‘Crown’ without the ‘Cross’.

Beloved in Christ, we must hold fast to the Lord when trials and tribulations come our way because of our faith in God; do not separate yourself from Him so that we may be successful to the end of our days.

PRAYER: When I am weak and your grace alone can assist me, Jesus, help me and never leave me. Amen

KNOW YOUR FAITH: YOUCAT 197 – Why does the Church adhere to the practice of infant Baptism?

From antiquity the Church has practiced infant Baptism. There is one reason for this: before we decide on God, God has decided on us. Baptism is therefore a grace, an undeserved gift of God, who accepts us unconditionally. Believing parents who want what is best for their child want Baptism also, in which the child is freed from the influence of original sin and the power of death.

HIDE A TREASURE: “Happy are those who patiently endure trials, because afterwards they will receive the crown of life which the Lord promised to those who love him.” James 1:12 CCB

Readings for Today: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-5, 11-12; Psalm 96:1-5; Matthew 23:13-22