The readings emphasize that living a life devoted to God is challenging. It often leads to struggle as we suffer because the world opposes us for living according to God's purposes for us.
Yet, like the prophet Jeremiah, we realize that deep within us, this life is worth living more than anything else.
I certainly came to a greater awareness of how living by faith is worth it during my college years through being part of the St. Teresa's community. I was back with them this day attending Mass celebrated by Bishop Robert McClory of the Diocese of Gary. While I acknowledged the gravity of the challenge posed by the readings, Bishop McClory put such a positive, uplifting spin on it. He shared that when we refuse to be conformed to the world and instead seek out God's will, we enter into a life with great meaning and purpose.
While we could fill our lives with worldly pleasures, they won't satisfy us nearly as much as when we decline what the world offers and give of ourselves, thereby fortifying our souls for the Eternal Life God promises to those who strive faithfully in this life. And that's one prize worth gaining above even the whole world.
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