Lord, in your great love, answer me. — Psalm 69:14

Mass readings: Isaiah 50:4-9 / Matthew 26:14-25

Bearing Suffering

The bestseller Unbroken tells the riveting story of World War II hero Louie Zamperini. After his plane crashed over the Pacific, he survived brutal treatment at the hands of his Japanese captors. One deranged guard, apparently incensed by Louie’s pre-war success as an Olympic Games runner, tortured and beat him mercilessly. Louie somehow survived. But even more remarkable was his forgiveness of the guard. After the war, bolstered by his new-found Christian faith, Louie went to Japan to tell the guard he held no ill will against him.

In today’s reading, Isaiah talks about giving your back to those who beat you and not shielding your face from buffets and spitting. Jesus accepted His incredible suffering. We suffer mostly petty annoyances. There’s no calamity that God can’t help us withstand.

Prayer: Lord, give me the strength and courage to bear the burdens of my life.