Staying the course

March is a long month, and in the liturgical season, Lent. The daily liturgical readings take us through God’s dealings with Israel, his teaching, coaxing, promising, punishing. The gospels have Jesus doing the same thing with the people of his time and particularly the disciples. He says to them, "Do you still not perceive or understand?… Do you have eyes and fail to see?" 

Jesus is on his way, going "up to Jerusalem." He knows what lies before him, yet continues on his way. Whether his followers continue to follow or leave, he will stay the course. This indeed is patience, one of the Fruits of the Holy Spirit that also means endurance. And we, his followers today, are also called to it. 

Each of us, whoever or wherever we are, is called to "put up with" something (or someone!). For many, it is the daily grind, the "here we go again" moments, which comprise our following of Jesus, our "staying the course" with him. For some, for example those faced with chronic pain or terminal illness, the demands are very great.  

But it is here, in the day after day, that we most need patience, longsuffering. And as we "hang in there" we pray. 

Mary Buckley CSJ 

For other prayers, see this page