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Fear can be crippling and paralysing. When we are in its grip, we feel utterly alone, vulnerable and helpless. Many of the early Christians felt the same way when they faced persecution and even death for their faith. The temptation to give up the faith must have been great. How faithful would we be if our faith truly cost us in terms of comfort, safety, or even our lives? Luke assures us that we need not fear, for we will be given the strength and the wisdom to witness to our faith and to say and do the right thing. Don't push the spirit away, he tells us, just let it do its work. Ephesians gives us the same message: God is in charge, and Jesus has conquered all. That same spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is also poised to do wonders for us. The author wishes that his community had just a glimpse of the happiness and marvellous gifts God has in store for us. Most of us will not be called to martyrdom. Some might face physical persecution. Far more intimidating is our everyday struggle to live well and to follow the Master's teachings. But the message is the same: don't be afraid, don't give up, and don't despair. The same spirit that raised Jesus from the dead will give you the wisdom and courage you need. Jesus has conquered all and is our defender and companion. Lord, fill my heart with the wisdom and courage of the spirit. |
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P R A Y I N G W I T H T H E C H U R C H
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That young married couples may be sustained by the example and assistance of their parents and other families
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The testimony and help that parents and other families must offer to sustain young married couples finds its place in the ambit of post-matrimonial pastoral care. Parents and other families are the most suited to offer this assistance to young spouses because clearly they have lived personally the values which they must transmit. These parents show faithfulness through living in the best possible way the commitments assumed during their marriage. One could ask, but why is it necessary for young couples to be sustained by the testimony of their parents and other families? The answer is, because today there are many negative attitudes which scandalise and discourage young people. Being new to the condition of matrimonial life they need advice, encouragement, moral support, correction and prayer. They cannot be left alone or abandoned in this phase of their lives. Couples need to take advantage of the wealth of the experience and wisdom of their parents. "The pastoral action of the Church must be progressive, also in the sense that it must accompany the family, following it step by step in the various stages of its formation and development," (Familiaris Consortio n65, 69). | |
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