Deacon’s Corner: Perseverance

As you read this article the season of Lent is well underway. As Catholics, we traditionally make a resolution to either give something up or perhaps do something extra during these 40 days leading up to the Easter Triduum. As I reflect on what I plan to do for Lent, the word perseverance comes to mind. Although 40 days does not sound very long, it takes a certain amount of determination and discipline to carry my plan through.

As I pen this, the winter Olympic Games are in full swing. These athletes most certainly know a lot about perseverance. The Olympic Games are often described as the most significant stage in sports, but what makes them truly unforgettable is not just the medals, records, or spotlight moments. It is the perseverance behind every performance. The Olympics reveal what human beings can do when talent is matched with relentless effort, patience, and the willingness to rise after failure. For athletes, perseverance is not a motivational slogan — it is a daily practice, shaped by early mornings, injuries, disappointments, and pressure that most people will never experience firsthand.

The Bible too is filled with great examples of people who persevered through difficult times. In the face of adversity, Moses persisted in his leadership, continually seeking God’s will. His perseverance was rewarded when, after decades of journeying, he was granted a vision of the Promised Land before he passed away.

After the death of her husband, Ruth chose to stay with her mother-in-law Naomi instead of returning home to her own family.  Ruth demonstrated rare loyalty and love for Naomi, and despite the difficulties she faced as a widow in a foreign land, Ruth persevered, trusting God to guide her path.

At the pool in Bethesda sat a paralytic man. For 38 years he waited for a miracle. For when the waters were stirred, the first person to enter was healed. Though he persisted through all of these years, he was never able to get into the pool in time. But when Jesus encountered the man, he was healed. Jesus understands our struggles and wants to help us and can transform our difficulties into victories.

So, as I (or we) reflect on our Lenten devotion, and maybe feel that we have failed in one way or another or even perhaps feel like giving up, we can find inspiration from people around us and in sacred scripture to help us get up again and start over. Life is a journey, a pilgrimage, and as with any journey we encounter times that are easy and times where the going becomes challenging. But as long as we persevere, as long as we are moving toward our loving God, we are promised the crown of victory.

Blessings,

Dcn. Mike