Forged in the Fires of Suffering

The Apostle Paul has a recurring ailment and he prays to Jesus for its removal. In his mind the condition is completely a problem that gets in the way of his ministry and adds no value to his life. Jesus' surprising answer is 'no'. Instead, Paul is to draw upon Jesus' enlivening presence amidst the trials of his suffering. Perhaps, in our COVID-19 season we also are invited to drill down into Jesus' abiding presence and experience his succor of grace which is greater than our immediate need.