It is easy for me to get on the “self-pity pot” and complain about how difficult my life is. This is especially the case when I experience difficulties caused by others. I have a friend who was a U.S. POW in Hanoi, Vietnam for over seven years. When he hears people complain or is tempted to complain himself, he responds, “Any day that doesn’t involve leg irons, handcuffs, and locked doors is a good day.” It seems like we can be tempted to complain even when things are not nearly as bad as they could be.

Yet, what is so radical about today’s first reading is that Saint James is challenging us to not merely not complain when we encounter difficulties, but to actually “consider it all joy.” We are called to accept the reality of our situation and rejoice in our Lord for His goodness to us. And there is a reason why Saint James challenges us to do this—to produce perseverance and strengthen our faith. Because it helps strengthen our spiritual resiliency. And this, aside from keeping us on the path of recovery, ultimately helps us win, by God’s grace, the prize of eternal life.

Reflection Questions

• What inconveniences or difficulties are you tempted to complain about today? How can you rejoice over these inconveniences or difficulties as Saint James challenges us to do?
• How has God strengthened your perseverance as you have walked the road of recovery?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: James 1:1-11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:67, 68, 71, 72, 75, 76
Gospel: Mark 8:11-13

Reflection by Kevin S.