Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
Most Catholics have heard of offering up our sufferings for Christ. But how exactly can we do this? In this Sunday’s Gospel reading, Simeon told Mary that she would share in Christ’s sufferings: “and you yourself a sword will pierce” (Luke 2:35). Mary knew Isaiah’s prophecy of the suffering servant (Isaiah 53). She was aware that suffering was a key part of her Son’s mission, and she knew that she would participate in His sufferings. We might wonder if Mary’s suffering was a waste. Is all suffering a waste?
When we encounter our own sufferings, we are given a gift—the chance to participate in Christ’s saving mission by offering God our hurts, failures, illnesses, sorrow, and grief. We can unite our suffering with Christ’s for the salvation of the world. What a paradox: suffering is not a waste, but rather a gift! St. Paul writes, “Indeed, as the sufferings of Christ overflow to us, so, through Christ, does our consolation overflow. When we are made to suffer, it is for our consolation and salvation” (2 Corinthians 1:5, 6).
Here are a few ideas on how to unite your suffering to Christ’s. First, accept the suffering. We cannot offer back to God what we do not fully possess. You might think, “Thy will be done, Lord.” Also, recognize the pain you endure in the suffering. Notice how it feels in your body and spirit. This will build your courage and your fortitude. In the midst of this, allow Christ to comfort and strengthen you. Remember that Jesus is there lifting your cross with you. Then, prayerfully offer your suffering back to God. Your sentiment might be, “I accept this suffering Lord, and I offer it to you in reparation for my sins.” You can also offer your suffering for loved ones, the souls in purgatory, or for a cause you hold dear. Finally, you can recall your sufferings at your next Mass, and again offer them to God in union with Christ’s Passion and death during the consecration of the Eucharist.
Lord Jesus, suffering seems so pointless and frightening. Please be with me when I suffer, and help me to participate in Your saving mission.
“[I] rejoice in my sufferings for you and fill up those things that are wanting of the sufferings of Christ, in my flesh, for His body, which is the church”
St. Paul – Colossians 1:24