Blessed the man who is gracious and lends to those in need. — Psalm 112:5

Mass Readings: 2 Corinthians 9:6-10 / John 12:24-26 

Hard Words 

Today, we have one of those difficult sayings of Jesus. “Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will preserve it for eternal life.” Is life on earth to be a joyless struggle endured only for the reward of eternal life? 

Well, in a sense, yes; in another sense, not quite. Who can doubt that life is a perpetual struggle? Even my 10-year-old son comes home from school sometimes and says he can’t stand another day. What can I tell him except that one day he will see the wisdom of school. So it is with us. We may be weary or afflicted and wonder what God wants. But can we see the wisdom in remaining faithful? Remember today’s Gospel: “The Father will honor whoever serves me.” 

Prayer: Jesus, when I walk in darkness, give me Your light, so I may live.