“We will obtain most graces when, plunged in inner and outer darkness, full of sorrow, exhausted from work, suffering, without consolation, persecuted at every step, in the midst of continual failures, abandoned by all, mocked, ridiculed, alone… like Jesus on the Cross” St. Maximillian Kolbe
When we go through difficult moment and times of real challenge, we have the opportunity to grow the most AND help others to accept God’s Will.
Jesus gives each of us a great example of the fruits of surrendering to the Will of the Father and its effect upon others.
“And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt.”” Matthew 26:39
Jesus surrendered totally to the Father’s Divine Will, not because He was happy about it or felt excited to go forward into the Passion, but because of the good it would do for all souls. Plus, it was the Father’s Will and Jesus was always united with the Father’s Will.
We know that this surrender in the garden led to the cross and resurrection which leads to our salvation. But, we also get a great example of what surrender looks like in horrible moments.
Not every opportunity we are given to surrender will be easy or happy. Many times which we are called to total surrender are dark and foreboding. Many may even call us to great risk to ourselves or maybe even more difficult, the risk of a loved one.
Our surrender to God’s Divine Will can often be the greatest opportunity for others to see faith in action.
Do you offer yourself as a martyr for your faith, to lead others to God? A definition of martyr is “One who makes great sacrifices or suffers much in order to further a belief, cause, or principle.”
Your surrender can be seen by others. Your example can help others take a step into surrender.