12^th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Zechariah 12:10-11;13:1         Psalm 62     Galatians 3:26-29                        Luke 9:18-24

It is always difficult to see good coming out of suffering.  We tend to think that God is somehow unconnected with our difficulties and that God is only present when things are going well for us.  The readings today teach us that suffering is very much part of the Christian path – not for its own sake but so that it can transform us and purify us.

The first reading from the prophet Zechariah speaks of mourning the one who has been pierced, an image which reminds Christians of Jesus who was pierced on the cross.  In the gospel passage Jesus asks his disciples about his identity and when Peter acknowledges that his master is the Christ (Messiah), he made it clear that this meant that he was going to suffer and be put to death.  In fact, he added that his followers must also accept suffering in their own lives.

How can we embrace our difficulties and hardships without them overwhelming us?  Firstly, we can turn to God, the one we are all thirsting for, as the psalmist says.  God will be our help and give us strength if we put our trust in him through prayer and the sacraments. Then let us remember that we are all brothers and sisters in Christ and so can also turn to each other for help and support.  Let us notice our brother and sister in need this week and bring the love of Christ into their lives.