From the Word of the Day
“I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us…We know that all creation is groaning in labour pains even until now; and not only that, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, we also groan within ourselves as we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For who hopes for what one sees…We wait with endurance.”
(Romans 8: 22-24)
How should we live this Word? 
Paul’s affirmation is the cornerstone of our believing and hoping. There is no comparison between our present condition marked by suffering, by limitations, by imperfection and that which awaits us. Not only will there no longer be tears, but we will be immersed in joy forever.
The image that Paul uses to express our situation, in which we have the first fruits of the Spirit, is very meaningful and intense. He says it is true that we are suffering now, but like a woman about to give birth. Hers is joyful suffering because she is about to bring a child into the light. It is this way for us as well. Nothing of our suffering is lost if our living is based on the Word, if our groans are of hope in synergy with all of creation that waits to be immersed in God’s glory.
Today in my time of silent contemplation, I will pause to immerse my day in this light of hope. I will ask the Holy Spirit to live my days in conscious expectancy of the Lord’s glorious manifestation, an expectancy full of love.
My God, I wait for You with eagerness and great trust!
The Voice of Kahlil Gibran, Lebanese Poet and Philosopher
Just as the pit of the fruit must be broken so that it may expose its heart to the sun, so too must you know suffering.
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