Grace in Suffering

“Whenever anyone bears the pain of unjust suffering because of consciousness of God, that is a grace.” (1 Pt 2:19)

This week, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a rare special message on immigration, condemning the “indiscriminate mass deportation” of migrants and urging Catholics to defend the God-given dignity of every human person. It was the first time in twelve years that the bishops spoke with such urgency, reminding us that the plight of immigrants is not only a political issue but a profoundly spiritual one.

To suffer unjustly, whether through exile, persecution, or rejection, is to share in the suffering of Christ.The bishops remind us that the wounds of migrants and the persecuted are wounds in the Body of Christ. We can’t deny that the Body of Christ is suffering.

Today’s Psalm 69 laments reproach and rejection, echoing our suffering. To follow Christ is, in some way, a call to martyrdom—whether in daily self-denial or in facing real danger for the sake of faith.

Yet suffering is not the end. We are called to courage: to stand with the vulnerable, to correct ineffective systems that harm so many lives, and to hold fast in love even when reproach comes. This is the narrow path of discipleship, the grace of being conformed to Christ.

May we endure with faith, act with courage, and reveal God’s goodness in a world longing for hope. May we hold on to our fragments of human dignity and fight for wholeness.

Prayer for Refugees

Lord Jesus,
You were once a stranger and a refugee in Egypt.
Look with love and compassion on those forced to flee from their homes,
those who seek safety, shelter, and peace.
Bless them with strength in their journey,
comfort in their sorrow,
and hope in their despair.

Open our hearts to welcome them,
our hands to serve them,
and our voices to defend their dignity.
May we see in them Your face,
and may Your Spirit guide us to build a world
where no one is a stranger,
and all are embraced in Your love.

Amen.