Count It All Joy

Romans 5:3-10

3 And not only so; but we glory also in tribulations, knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

4 And patience trial; and trial hope;

5 And hope confoundeth not: because the charity of God is poured forth in our hearts, by the Holy Ghost, who is given to us.

6 For why did Christ, when as yet we were weak, according to the time, die for the ungodly?

7 For scarce for a just man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man some one would dare to die.

8 But God commendeth his charity towards us; because when as yet we were sinners, according to the time,

9 Christ died for us; much more therefore, being now justified by his blood, shall we be saved from wrath through him. 

A friend of mine and I had an amazing experience. 
We actually had an evening last night of "counting it all joy".  

After a day of tremendous malice and hatred from a group of people who support ssm, we went to his home after a late Mass, ate, and talked about Jesus for an hour. Then, we realized how happy we were, laughing and almost crying for joy because, as my friend said, God found us worthy enough to suffer for His Truth.

The ones who were tormenting my friend and I were miserable during the hours of this encounter. but my friend kept his head, was rational, while I phoned my "prayer team" (thanks, team), and then we went to Mass together.

As the day ended in this unexpected joy, we realized how fortunate we were to be resting in grace.

I am still smiling hours later....

Joy comes from love of Christ, and when we put Him and His Church first, joy follows, even through the pain of hostility.

Peace, joy, rest....the gifts of the Holy Spirit to the Church Militant.