Thursday, 15th Week in Ordinary Time July 20, 2023

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/072023.cfm

Following the Lord Through Difficult Times.

Struggles are a part of everyday life. There are challenges everywhere we turn. But did you ever have a day when everything was perfect? (OK. Vocations don’t count. Even then, it can rain on the beach.) When faced with a challenge, we often struggle through something or put it off if we can, waiting for a better day. 

What about those more significant struggles, like a long-term illness or mourning the death of a family member? Or where am I getting funds to pay my rent or even get some gas for the car? How do we overcome a pattern of sin or weakness of character that has plagued our life for years? Again, Jesus bids us go to Him. He can’t carry our sufferings on His Calvary if we don’t place our crosses on His shoulders.  

He told St. Faustina how it grieves Him when we don’t go to Him. We know how we feel when someone will not accept our offer to help them in a struggle. Like a friend helping us, Jesus doesn’t remove our burdens but helps us carry them.

Gospel Challenge:

After my surgeries, I learned to surrender the pain for the intentions people asked me to pray. The pain didn’t subside, but the thoughts of worry and anxiety left me.  I knew the pain would be gone in a matter of days. Rest in the Lord, and let Him carry your burden. He will renew your spirit, especially when it rains on the beach. 

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC  
pastor@bscchurch.com