Hope in the Struggle

8/1/2018

Step #1: Lectio / Read

Click the link below or open your Bible to the passage and read through the reading at least once, paying attention to what is happening in the text.

Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21

Step #2: Meditatio / Meditate

Use the following meditation to help you reflect more deeply on the Scripture (you may want to read the passage again).

How do we respond when the Lord seems suddenly absent from our lives in the place of struggle or suffering? When we have dedicated our whole life to Him and persevered in prayer, and yet there seems to be no compensation or relief?

The prophet Jeremiah is in a rough place in today's first reading. In many ways, he feels abandoned and scorned by God and by those around him. He is suffering and can't find any answers or relief. We've all been there. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, failing an important test, or not making the sports team, we have all had to overcome obstacles and suffering in our lives. Sometimes, in these moments, it is easier to give into sin and despair to try to numb the hurt, but the Lord wants to glorify even these moments of our lives.

The Lord answers by offering Jeremiah a chance for redemption if he only repents, and in that repentance comes restoration. And in that restoration, the Lord protects us and makes us stronger than we were before.

God sees our suffering and does not rejoice in our struggle but redeems it. I invite you to find God in the struggle today. Whether it's a deep suffering or a small hurdle to overcome, recognize the good work that the Lord wishes to accomplish through you in this moment, on this day.

Step #3: Oratio / Pray

These questions are to be used to talk to God; have a conversation with the Lord about these questions and what is going on in your heart as you pray today.

What struggle, big or small, are you facing today?

What do you need to repent of?

What parts of your life are in need of redemption?

Step #4: Contemplatio / Contemplation

In this step, you listen. Stop talking, let God speak to your heart. You may repeat one of these short phrases to focus your mind on the Lord.

"You shall prevail."

"You are light in the dark."

"You deliver me."

Step #5: Actio / Act

In light of today's reading and your time spent in prayer with the Lord, what concrete action or actions will you take to let this encounter with the Lord bear fruit in you today?

Take your struggles to the Lord today, and allow Him the opportunity to redeem them even if that redemption does not seem to come right away.

Smartphone Lock Screen

The following image is here for you to save and use as a background or lock screen on your smartphone or device to help you carry today's Lectio Divina with you the rest of the day.

Today's prayer was prepared by Maggie Overbeck, Assistant Director of Youth Ministry at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Huntley, IL.

If you have anything you'd like our team to pray for, please go to the page of our website called "Prayers" and let us know how we can pray for you today.

CARPE VERBUM