"We give thanks to God always for all of you, remembering you in our prayers, unceasingly calling to mind your work of faith and labor of love and endurance in hope of our Lord Jesus Christ"
1 Thessalonians 1:2-3
In recent years, I've heard no shortage of controversy over the fact that when we pray the Our Father, we ask our Lord that he "lead us not into temptation." The point is not, as some commentators suggest, that God tries to tempt us into doing evil. Rather, the original meaning is closer to "put us not to the test." And though we might wish otherwise, our Father does indeed permit us to be tested, as virtues only become heroic when they potentially cost us something, just like today's first reading reveals.
Paul commends his listeners for their "work" of faith, their "labor" of love, and their "endurance" in hope. Work, labor, and endurance all point toward a challenge to overcome. For instance, faith is not just a one-time decision, but something we have to work at. Hope implies that there is a reasonable cause for fear, and thus calls for endurance in the face of that fear. God wants us to experience the bliss of Heaven, but he also wants us to grow. Despite the growing pains, are we eager to take his loving hand, knowing that he is there to help us every step of the way?
Are we willing to brave the growing pains that come with growth in virtue?
Heavenly Father, strengthen our courage and endurance in those times when the virtues your Son taught us are tested.
Today's Reflection is by:
Donald Amodeo
Did you know...
Deacon Donald Amodeo is a transitional deacon for the Diocese of St. Petersburg. He was ordained on April 17th and, God-willing will be ordained to the priesthood in May 2022. Author of the afterlife adventure "Dead & Godless," Don is an avid reader and a fan of apologetics, coffee, and cast-iron skillets. His home parish is St. Mary Catholic Church in Tampa.
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