Jesus teaches us how to act before dealing with suffering, difficulty, trouble. Basically, he says, hang in there. “By your perseverance you will secure your lives.” The Book of Revelation talks about what happens after a time of trial. After the assured victory over “the beast” we will lift our voices in prayers of praise. The problem comes not so much in the before or the after as much as during the testing times. That is where we need the help and that is exactly where the importance of being Church arises. Having people around us to share our burdens and companion us in the midst of strife makes all the difference. Let’s not fear to reach out in love to those who are hurting.
