If we don't get regular, even daily, encouragement, we may grow hardened by the deceit of sin and of the culture of death (Heb 3:13). Encouragement often will not find us if we don't try to find it. Many of us miss the opportunity to receive or give encouragement. Here are some ways we can pursue and find encouragement:

• We need to place ourselves in a position to receive encouragement, for example, by not skipping Mass (Heb 10:25). Frequent Mass, even daily if possible, keeps us in position to receive encouragement and is a great help against not being hardened. Daily Mass equals daily encouragement.
• Your presence and faithfulness encourages others; likewise, your absence can discourage others. Be present to others.
• Don't put off giving encouragement; do it "today" (Heb 3:13).
• Give the Lord a chance to encourage you by your daily routine: daily Mass, daily Bible reading (see Rm 15:4), daily Rosary, daily prayers, such as the Liturgy of the Hours.
• Most important, we need to encourage others daily, especially our brothers and sisters in Christ, so that they do not grow hardened in heart. Make the most of the opportunity to encourage others every day (Eph 5:16). Encourage "them all to remain firm in their commitment to the Lord" (Acts 11:23).

Be sons and daughters of encouragement (see Acts 4:36). Give encouragement a chance.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 30, 2014

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