The Bible tells us not only to rejoice in trials but even to "count it pure joy" (Jas 1:2). We're so happy because tested faith "makes for endurance" (Jas 1:3). This endurance will eventually make us "fully mature and lacking in nothing" (Jas 1:4). We rejoice "in every sort of trial" (Jas 1:2) because we desire maturity more than comfort and pleasure. We desire to serve God and His people powerfully and effectively more than we desire to feel good. Ultimately, we want to be mature because we're in love with the Lord. Love is stronger than self, fear, pain, suffering, and death. Love overshadows even our most severe trials.

Therefore, rejoice "in the measure that you share Christ's sufferings. When His glory is revealed, you will rejoice exultantly" (1 Pt 4:13). Take up your daily cross thankfully. Find your joy in the suffering you endure for Christ's Body, the Church (Col 1:24). "For it is your special privilege to take Christ's part — not only to believe in Him but also to suffer for Him" (Phil 1:29). "There is cause for rejoicing here. You may for a time have to suffer the distress of many trials; but this is so that your faith" may be genuine (1 Pt 1:6-7). Rejoice in the Lord's love always. "Again, I say rejoice" (Phil 4:4).

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Daniel E. Pilarczyk, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, August 16, 2005

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