O Sacred Heart of Jesus, it seems that every day I am learning more clearly that the Cross is simply unavoidable in the life of a Christian. This shouldn’t surprise me since Thy life was all about the Cross. It is only right and reasonable that the servant follows in the footsteps of his Master. Besides, if I had no sufferings in this life, I would grow to love my life on earth so much that I would never be willing to part with it for heaven. I would be nothing more than a poor worldling who has nothing to look forward to after death and who lives only for the passing pleasures of this brief life.
All that remains, then, is to embrace my sufferings lovingly. I must run to meet them and “lift high the Cross.” This is what You did when Thou didst set the example for me! But alas, I am not a saint and find the Cross daunting. My human nature cries out in fear and frustration as it recoils from any form of adversity. O Sacred Heart of Jesus, please help me to overcome this fear of suffering. Please help me to be like You and to embrace suffering as a badge of honor. Please poor forth Thy grace into my heart so that my weak human nature may be overcome by Thy supernatural helps. Please help me to be a saint. Please help me to persevere in asking Thee for help, since I cannot even begin any good work without the help of Thy grace. Please help me, O my good Jesus, Who didst say that Thy burden is sweet and Thy yoke is light. Please let me feel and experience the truth of these words.
O Mary, my mother, please intercede for thy poor child who every morning and evening renews his consecration to thee. My mother, my hope!
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