In the first reading, the Apostle Paul speaks powerfully about suffering, weakness, and the sustaining power of God. We are like jars of clay - fragile, yet carrying a priceless treasure which is the Gospel. Needless to say, God sustains us through it. The assuring words of St Paul shines out for us today: "We are in difficulties on all sides, but never cornered; we see no answer to our problems, but never despair; we have been persecuted, but never deserted; knocked down, but never killed" (2 Cor 4:8-9). The purpose of hardships - sacrifice, suffering and self-giving - is so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed, with hope in the Resurrection. Thus, this passage teaches us that weakness is not a failure but is the very place where God's power shines most clearly and makes us stronger.

How does the Gospel correlate to the first reading? In God's kingdom, greatness is measured not by power, but by service and sacrifice. "Anyone who wants to be great among you must be your servant" (Mt 20:26). True greatness is a self-giving love. Glory comes through suffering. God works most powerfully through humility and not dominance. Let us then reflect on how we can follow Jesus' example in our everyday relationships and situations - trying to be humbler and yet stronger.