Monday, October 9, 2017

patience toward others is love


Today in A Year with the Church Fathers, we hear from St John Cassian. He says that we have to learn not to blame our shortcomings on other people. We have to learn to be patient, even when others push our buttons. And as you know, this isn't easy.

There is a wise saying that goes: Patience with others is called love. Patience with yourself is called hope. And patience with God is called faith. In all of these circumstances, patience is the key.

There is also a silly saying that says we should never pray for patience. The idea is that God will put us into circumstances where we'll learn it - the hard way. It's funny, sure. But it's not to be taken seriously, because it betrays a lack of faith in God. We don't have to be afraid of what He teaches us. We can trust Him. Even to teach us patience.

God, please help us to be patient, so we can express love to others, hope in our own futures, and faith in You.

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