righteous and repentant
“Naked I came forth from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I go back again. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord!” ––Job 1:21
Many of us have said things disrespectful of God when our life hasn’t gone as planned. Contrast this attitude with “a blameless and upright man named Job, who feared God and avoided evil” (Jb 1:1). Most likely, “you have heard of the steadfastness of Job” (Jas 5:11). Even in view of all the suffering Satan heaped upon him, “Job did not sin, nor did he say anything disrespectful of God” (Jb 1:22).
Job’s humble trust in God’s divine providence makes us uncomfortable. Look to St. Peter for inspiration. Recall that Jesus predicted Peter’s denial: “Simon, Simon! Remember that Satan has asked for you, to sift you all like wheat. But I have prayed for you that your faith may never fail. You in turn must strengthen your brothers” (Lk 22:31-32). Peter didn’t like the insinuation of failure. “ ‘Lord,’ he said to Him, ‘at Your side I am prepared to face imprisonment and death itself’ ” (Lk 22:33). Peter then denied the Lord three times before the cock crowed, just as Jesus foretold (see Lk 22:34, 61). Peter, staring at his own weakness through the compassionate eyes of Jesus, “went out and wept bitterly” (Lk 22:62).
If Job’s righteousness seems unattainable, look to St. Peter. In the end, Peter repented of his sin and caused great joy in heaven (see Lk 15:7).
Prayer: Father, give me the fortitude of Job and the humility of Peter.
Promise: “Show Your wondrous kindness, O Savior of those who flee from their foes to refuge at Your right hand.” ––Ps 17:7
Praise: The Eastern Catholic Churches honor Sts. Cosmas and Damian as “Unmercenary Physicians.” These saintly twin brothers, who did not accept payment, used their medical skills to serve God.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
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