It is 27th January 2017. We celebrate the memorial of St. Angela Merici, the Virgin. The readings are from Hebrews 10:32-39; and the Gospel from Mark 4:26-34. The first reading invites us to endure suffering for the good and the salvation of the soul. “Be as confident now, then, since the reward is so great. You will need endurance to do God’s will and gain what God has promised.” (Heb.10:36). The renewal and strength of our inner stamina of the soul comes from enduring the pain and suffering for the sake of Jesus. When we suffer for long, we might be weary, tired, and less fervent. Yet, our endurance for the great reward of being with God in Heaven makes us to remain faithful no matter how challenging situations we are in. Sometimes, we may feel discouraged due to the ostracized behavior of the community, still the faith in our High Priest Jesus makes us to go on withstanding for Him. We could lose everything so dear to us one day. If the soul remains intact by the faith we have in Jesus, we will gain it all. The responsorial Psalm praises, “The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.” (Ps.36:9). The Gospel instills in us that the growth and development of the soul comes through our faith in God. All great endings had humble beginnings. We can do everything for the growth of the plant, our life, yet the final analysis of maturity and fruition belongs to God; and God alone can be credited for its growth. Indeed, it is grace that makes us all to reach the desired end of life. We must make our efforts to the fullest in preparing the environment for growth and only then grace completes and make the best out of it. Let us be faithful in small things of our lives to achieve great things. Little things for God matters for our personal salvation. In confidence and humility, let us strive forward to be faithful at all cost to enjoy the happiness and peace of Christ. May you have a good day.