Monday, January 22 : Saint Ambrose

What makes God’s judgements just? In the sense that it is by means of effort and trial that we come to the reward of heaven. Just as, according to man’s judgement, the crown of victory is given to athletes who fight, so , according to God’s judgement, the palm of victory is given to christians who struggle, (cf. 1Cor 9,25). “I will give the victor the right to sit with me on my right,” says the Lord (Rv 3,21). As silver is refined by fire so is our life refined by fire that the strength of our virtue may be shown in combat… Indeed, what are we doing that is exceptional if we praise God in comfort when nothing unpleasant comes to disturb us? What is praiseworthy is if you praise God’s judgement in the midst of difficulties and vexations, if you do not complain in privation and it does not prevent you from praising his justice. The greater the trial, the richer will be the consolation held in store for you. However, so as not to fall, the more you see yourself assailed by hard trials, the more you should pray to the Word of God to bring you his support.

Roman Catholic Ordinary Calendar – rosary,team