Greetings Prayer Warriors,
We fight our crosses most of our lives, yet it takes a long time to realize the gift that they are. They wrestle us from pride, vanity, selfishness, and dependence on earthly goods, just for starters. They sanctify us, and bring us closer to God.
They strengthened the spirits of the disciples and exhorted them to persevere in the faith, saying, “It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” Acts 14:22
While we grumble about our crosses, more difficult is seeing relatives struggle with theirs, especially when they have little faith. Our hearts ache for them on both accounts; their heavy crosses and their weak faith. Many are easy to pray for, but others, not so much. Perhaps we blame them for their crosses and believe they deserve them. Yet, we are not called to judge them, but to love them, as Christ loved us.
Christ’s Via Dolorosa exhibits what an unfathomable love for the unlovable, unloved, and loved looks like. Yet, how many of us still do not return an ounce of that love? He calls us to love Him by loving others as He loves us. Sometimes love hurts.
“If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. Luke 9:23
Lord, if we are honest with ourselves, we too are weak in faith and charity. Please accept our gifts of prayer on behalf of ALL of our family/relatives. We pray that their faith may flower, their burdens may feel lighter, their joy may be increased, and Christ’s light may dispel their darkness. Accept our prayers in atonement for our own anemic love. In gratitude for your unfailing love, may we one day be able to unite with all family members in prayer and pray:
I give you thanks, LORD and King, I praise you, God my savior! I declare your name, refuge of my life, because you have ransomed my life from death; You held back my body from the pit, and delivered my foot from the power of Sheol. Sirach 51:1-2
Jesus, we trust in You!
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
Just love. Pass it on!
