Carry Our Crosses

Jesus tenderly tells us today, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me.”

In this tumultuous world we live in, where there is so much discord and animosity, amidst wars breaking out in different parts of the globe, Jesus’ words are very comforting, and we should hold them close to our hearts.

Petitions

When I listen to a live broadcast of the Rosary and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, the petitions that are aired are so heartbreaking and heavy, that my own personal difficulties in life often pale in comparison. Nevertheless, to each person, their own cross is heavy enough to bear. Yet, our Lord Jesus Christ, God himself, came down to earth to live among us mere mortals, and to experience the struggles of daily living.

He himself experienced rejection and ridicule, even after performing so many incredible miracles like raising the dead to life and feeding multitudes of people with a few loaves and fish. So, when we pray to Jesus for understanding and grace, we can do so with full knowledge and confidence that He understands what we are going through.

Holding Crosses

I remember listening to St. Faustina’s reflections during the Chaplet and for the fourth decade, in her vision she saw groups of people holding their crosses. Some carried them valiantly while others were discontent and dragged their crosses behind them.

Let us be a hopeful people of the Resurrection, following in Christ’s path not only to the crucifixion, but ultimately to salvation in Heaven. Jesus has assured us that in his Father’s house, there are many dwelling places. And He has prepared a place for each of us. And He further assures us “I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be.”

May we continue our life’s journey with hopeful hearts and with eyes fixed on heaven. Heaven, our final destination and ultimate reward.

[Readings: Acts 13:26-33; Jn 14:1-6]

Arlene Braganza

Arlene Braganza is a life-long Catholic who was born and raised in Bahrain and now resides in California. She has been married for over 35 years and has one married daughter living in Los Angeles and a son living in New York. She works as an Office Manager for a busy CPA firm (31 years and counting) and tries to make it to Daily Mass even during the stressful tax season.

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