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Saint Paul's prayer at the beginning of this passage from second Thessalonians affirms that God has given us his love and through his grace such inexhaustible comfort and such sure hope. To aid our reflection, let us suppose that "inexhaustible comfort" my be understood as what spiritual masters often call "spiritual consolation." Saint Ignatius defines "spiritual consolation" as any increase in faith, hope, love and joy in the things of the Lord". Then we realize that our spiritual lives should be marked by constant consolation, for we should be growing constantly in faith, hope, love and joy in the things of the Lord. Saint Paul usually begins his letters with a thanksgiving to God for the Community he is writing to. Then he recounts to them what graces he has been praying for them to receive from God. Quite frequently these opening verses mention faith, hope and love. If Paul feels compelled to pray for these graces for his community, we may profitably reflect on our own need for them and frequently pray to God for them.
Father in Heaven, grant us a continual growth in faith , hope and love, that in all circumstances we may be filled with joy in our religion, as it draws into ever greater intimacy with You.
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DAILY OFFERING
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Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.
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PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
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INTENTION
That a spirit of dialogue, encounter, and reconciliation emerge in the Near East, where diverse religious communities share their lives together.
Elaboration
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