Brothers and sisters: I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us (Romans 8:18).
This side of heaven, we are going to suffer in this life and sometimes intensely. So many suffer from the atrocities of violence and war, poverty, homelessness, domestic abuse, slavery, and the list continues. We have our own struggles, trials, and tribulations.
Paul recognized that in his time as well and is reminding the churches in Rome and us today that this life is not it. There is a glory beyond this world that is promised to those of us who accept the invitation to participate in the life of Jesus. It is in this reality, our oneness and unity with God will be fully experienced. This is where we place our ultimate hope.
Yet, we do not have to wait for heaven to experience a foretaste of heaven now, to experience the wonder and glory now. A gentle, light shines in the darkness. Do we see it? In today’s gospel, Jesus compares the kingdom of God to a tiny mustard seed or yeast. Meaning that God is present in this fallen world. He has not given up on us, he has not abandoned us. He calls us to himself to receive, rest, and abide in his love.
Our struggles will become a blessing when we consistently seek Jesus when all is calm as well as when the storm rages. Each time we choose to put God first we experience him more. In gentle ways, he touches our minds and our hearts, he grants us hope, a little light in the darkness to follow. We just need to remain steadfast, trust, and continue forward, one moment at a time, one choice at a time.
Just like the Mustard seed will grow into a bush and the yeast will help the dough to rise to make a nice, warm loaf of bread, so we in our participation in the life of Christ will grow and mature as his disciples and his Father’s beloved children. God will bring about a greater good from our trials and tribulations.
Photo: Evening Rosary walk, St. Vincent De Paul Regional Seminary, Boynton Beach.
Spiritual Stepping Stones 