Scripture scholars say that St. Paul wrote at least four letters to the Corinthian church. His first and third letters were lost, and his second letter is 1 Corinthians in our Bibles, and his fourth letter is 2 Corinthians. Many think that when God comforts us, our troubles should go away. But if that were so, people would turn to God only out of a desire to be relieved of pain and not out of love for him. We must understand that being “comforted” can also mean receiving strength, encouragement, and hope to deal with our troubles.

The more we suffer, the more comfort God gives us. When we feel overwhelmed, let us allow God to comfort us. Remember that every trial we endure will help us comfort others who are suffering similar troubles. Suffering for Christ refers to those afflictions we experience as we serve Christ. At the same time, Christ suffers with his people since they are united with him. Christ asked St Paul why he was persecuting him. This implies that Christ suffered with the early Christians when they were persecuted.

Prayer: Abba Father, may our sufferings be for the glory of your name. Amen.