Strength in our ordinary life

 


We should frequently ask for the gift of fortitude to overcome the resistance to fulfill the duties that cost us, to face the normal obstacles of every existence, to bear illness with patience when it comes, to persevere in our daily chores, to be constant in the apostolate, to overcome adversity with serenity and a supernatural spirit. 

We should ask for this gift in order to have that inner strength that makes it easier for us to forget ourselves and to be more attentive to those around us, to mortify the desire to attract attention, to serve others without them noticing it, to overcome impatience, to not give too much thought to our problems and difficulties, to not complain when faced with difficulties or discomfort, to mortify our imagination by rejecting useless thoughts.... We need strength in the apostolate to speak of God without fear, to behave always in a Christian way even when it clashes with a paganized environment, to make fraternal correction when necessary.... Fortitude to fulfill our duties effectively: giving unconditional help to those who depend on us, making demands in a kindly way and with the firmness that each case requires.... The gift of fortitude thus becomes the great remedy against lukewarmness, which leads to laziness and bourgeoisie.


The gift of fortitude finds in difficulties exceptional conditions to grow and take hold, if in these situations we know how to be close to the Lord. "Trees that grow in shady places and free from wind, while externally they develop with a prosperous aspect, become soft and muddy, and are easily hurt by anything; however, trees that live on the summits of the highest mountains, agitated by many winds and constantly exposed to the weather and to all inclemencies, struck by very strong storms and covered with frequent snows, become more robust than iron ".

This gift is obtained by being humble - accepting one's weakness - and by turning to the Lord in prayer and in the sacraments.

The sacrament of Confirmation strengthened us to fight as milites Christi, as soldiers of Christ. Communion - "food for strength " - restores our energy; the sacrament of Penance strengthens us against sin and temptation. In the Anointing of the Sick, the Lord gives help to his own for the last battle, the one in which eternity is decided forever.

The Holy Spirit is a gentle and wise Master, but also a demanding one, because he does not give his gifts unless we are willing to go through the Cross and correspond to his graces.

 

Hablar con Dios