Trials become blessings

Monday of week 6 in Ordinary Time

Mark 8:11-13

The skeptics asked for a sign from Jesus in order to test him.  Jesus retaliated by saying, "No sign shall be given."

The real sign is already in their midst, Jesus Christ, Incarnate Son of God.  But the skeptics weren't able to detect the miracle infront of them.

Pray that we may recognize the sign in our midst.  In the first reading, James expounded on the world of trials as tickets to discovering God's presence.  We abhor trials, but they could serve as opportunities to deepen our faith and commitment to God.  If in the midst of trials, we remain faithful to God then, trials become graces.

Second, trials are given to us so we may discern God's action.  This too is a sign if we opt to stay close to Jesus and discern his will.

Thirdly, trials help us to be humble.  This too is a sign. God prunes our hearts according to his own heart.

Reflect:  How do we treat the trials in our lives? 

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