I don’t know about you, but during these past weeks several of my friends have been undergoing severe trials: cancer, car accidents, death of loved ones. Such ordeals shake our faith and we wonder, Why do we suffer? and even, Is there a good God? At our chicken barbecue last month, during a random reading from my book “Heart to Heart with Mary,” a woman heard our Blessed Mother urging her to let go. At the conclusion, the woman confided to me that her daughter had recently died. Mary’s message touched her heart, brought tears to her eyes, and gave me goosebumps. In case you are in need of some comforting, encouraging words, here is another excerpt from my book:
Firming Up Faith
October 10
My child, as I held the infant Jesus in my arms and he drew sustenance from me, I marveled at this mystery that I should be feeding God. It was incredible. I’m sure there are days when you find it hard to believe that almighty God became a human being. Many people don’t accept that Jesus is God, especially considering the way he died. You are further challenged to believe in the miracle that bread and wine are transformed into Jesus, allowing him to feed you. At times doubt gnaws at your faith. You question what the Church teaches and are left in a quandary. You know that many other people, even good people, do not share your faith.
Whenever your faith wavers, don’t worry. If you reach out your arms to me, I will shore up your faith so it doesn’t collapse.
Ask me to pray for you to the Holy Spirit, the one who made the Incarnation possible. This Holy Spirit who once filled the hearts of frightened apostles with faith, will fill your heart with it too.
Talk to Mary about doubts you may have about the faith. She is a good listener.
By the way, October is the month of Rosary, and we celebrated the feast of the Holy Rosary on October 7. Praying this rhythmic, time-honored prayer soothes tired, aching, and worried hearts. Mary recommended it when she appeared at Lourdes and Fatima.
What gives you strength and renews your hope when you encounter trials that shake you faith?
One Response
Speaking from my own experience, prayer, devotion to the rosary,
receiving the sacraments (especially confession and the
Holy Eucharist gives me great sustinence.
If you pray with a sincere heart and receive the the Holy Eucharist and Blood of Christ with a contrite heart, the healing/answer always
come from Jesus or Mary when I unatleast expect it.