Today I shall my prayer by reflecting on the 1st reading. Here, St. Paul tells me that the Holy Spirit, who dwells within me, prays in ways that for the most part escape my consciousness. Such prayers are not less real for that reason. On the contrary, they enable me to pray continuously.
“All things work for good for those who love God.” Such is the experience in time of trial of those who love God. They are destined to become the images of his son, to be “justified”, to receive glory, even though they are not aware of it at the time.
So once again, St. Paul emphasizes, along with faith, the virtue of hope. But in order to keep these realities alive, I must rely more and more of daily prayer, say the rosary, acquaint myself with books of devotion and spiritual instruction.
Such practices will allow me to get in shape to slip through the narrow gate about which Jesus speaks about in today’s Gospel. And if I pray for others, it will intensify my joy to have them with me “on the other side.” Our Lady of Hope, be the cause of our joy!