In today’s first reading, St. Paul says that we have a treasure in earthen vessels. We are to remember Jesus’ suffering on the cross. It is the trials and tribulations we go through that shape us. We may face suffering, but God always has a purpose for allowing it. When we overcome it, it is because of the goodness of God. When we have faith through the storms in our lives, that faith is what creates our testimony. As we believe, we must speak about our experiences so that it builds the faith of others. When we give thanks to God, it reaches more and more people and strengthens the church. In the Responsorial Psalm, a similar theme is expressed by King David, who talks about being greatly afflicted. But in the sight of God, he is a faithful servant who serves God because he knows that he was saved and freed by the Lord. He continues to serve God, even in his suffering and gives thanks to God, calling upon his name in the presence of his people.

PRAYER: Abba Father, help us to embrace our trials and to be faithful through the storms in our lives so that we can give you all the glory. Amen.