05 May Through Hardships to Peace (Acts 14:22) by Chris Engelhart
“It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God.” ~ Acts 14:22 (full readings) .
Chris’ Reflections: Paul and his companions tell the early Christians in Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, “It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God.” This is still true for us today, but it can be hard for us to hear, and even counter-intuitive during this glorious season of Easter, as we are celebrating Christ’s victory over sin and death. One such hardship we experience is the pain of abortion, the killing of children and mistreatment of mothers who deserve so much better. For those of us involved in the pro-life movement, we must always include prayer and fasting, as Paul did, along with other actions we are called to. In today’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled and afraid.” In all of our hardships, abortion and otherwise, amidst a world of chaos, noise, and false pleasures, we must continue to seek God’s rest and peace. Persevere through the hardships, and God will grant you His peace.
* Chris Engelhart is a member of New York City LIFE Runners. He works in telecommunications and volunteers with the Sisters of Life, including running nearly two miles of wiring for the Sisters’ phone system. He enjoys going on international pilgrimages with Frassati Fellowship young adults..
Faith Challenge: Smile through any difficulties you experience and in that way let the glorious splendor of God’s Kingdom shine through you.
Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, LifeNews, American Family, Vatican, Project Rachel.. .
Our Prayers: Pray LIFE Runners Creed to End Abortion. Add Prayers. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, unceasingly. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now. .
Feast Day: St. Hilary of Arles .
Faith Quote: “You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.” ~ St. Augustine .
Through Christ our Lord,
Chris Engelhart
Psalm 51:6
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