We need to be strong

Monday  |  June 5, 2023  |  00:00 AM

“We need not think that the gift of fortitude is necessary only on some occasions or in particular situations. This gift must constitute the tenor of our Christian life, in the ordinary daily routine. As I said, we need to be strong every day of our lives, to carry forward our life, our family, our faith.…When we face daily life, when difficulties arise, let us remember this: ‘I can do all things in him who strengthens me’ (Phil 4:13).” — Pope Francis

Reflection: When do you need courage to keep or share the Catholic faith? Isaiah 11:1-3 names seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, knowledge, counsel (right judgment), piety, fortitude (courage), and fear of the Lord (wonder). The Catechism of the Catholic Church (1830) says that in baptism each person receives these gifts or “permanent dispositions” to open us to cooperating with the Holy Spirit. Which of these gifts do you draw on in the ordinary routines of daily life?

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