It is not hard to relate to the frustration of Paul in today’s first reading. He has been deserted. He is frazzled. In his travels, he has forgotten things, yet Paul still recognizes the Lord as being present, standing by him, and giving him strength. Can you say the same today? Is it just as easy today to relate to the frustration of Paul as it is the conviction that Christ is at your side? Which would Christ rather have you feel today, frustration at “the present world” or conviction of His presence? Do you allow yourself to feel both, alongside one another, or must your frustration be too great and prevent you from also feeling the Lord’s presence?
What can you do today to channel your frustration and give thanks for the Lord’s companionship? Who is in need of your companionship today? Could it be Christ in another person?
—Patrick Hyland, S.J., a Jesuit scholastic of the Chicago-Detroit province, is currently studying philosophy at St. Louis University.