The Catholic Book Blogger
Trust God’s promises, and take what comes
When Jesus was transfigured, says St. Gregory the Great, Peter wanted to live in that glory forever. But the time was not right. We have work to do here before we can live in glory with Jesus forever.
The Apostle Peter was excited by the revelation of these mysteries. He despised what was mundane and scorned what was earthly, and he was filled with a sort of frenzied craving for what was eternal. Filled with rapture at the whole vision, he wanted to make his home with Jesus in the place where he had been blessed with the manifestation of his glory. This is why he said, “Lord, it is well that we are here; if you wish, I will make three booths here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah” (Matthew 17:4).
But the Lord made no answer to this proposal, showing that what he wanted was certainly not wicked, but contrary to the divine order. The world could not be saved but by Christ’s death. The Lord’s example called the faithful to believe that, although we should not have any doubt about the promises of happiness, yet we should understand that we must ask the power to endure among the trials of this life, rather than the glory, because the joy of reigning cannot come before the times of suffering.
–St. Gregory the Great, Sermon 51, 5
IN GOD’S PRESENCE, CONSIDER . . .
What difficulties am I facing right now?
Have I prayed for the strength to endure them?
CLOSING PRAYER
Lord, I thank you that you have made me worthy to share your sufferings. When it is my time, let me be taken with your martyrs to your presence.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Remember to subscribe to my feed so you will not miss a day! This recurring feature at The Catholic Blogger is possible through the cooperation of author Mike Aquilina and publisher Saint Benedict Press. To get your own copy of this book, click below.
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In