The Catholic Defender: "You will have much to suffer, but the grace of God will be your comfort."
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"You will have much to suffer, but the grace of God will be your comfort."
This message was given after the children agreed to offer their sufferings to God in reparation for sins. It serves as a assurance of divine strength and consolation during difficult times.
Our Lady of Fatima asked the children if they were willing to endure suffering for the conversion of sinners.
Following their consent, Mary promised that despite impending suffering, they would be supported by the grace of God.
It highlights the theological belief that while Christians may face significant hardships, they are not alone and will receive divine aid.
The quote comes from the Fatima apparitions.
When Lucia dos Santos, the eldest of the three, responded "Yes, we are willing" to the request to accept suffering, Mary replied: "Then you will have much to suffer, but the grace of God will be your comfort".
Sister Lucia later described that as Mary spoke these final words, she opened her hands, emitting an intense light that made the children see themselves "in God".
This statement is considered a cornerstone of the Fatima message, emphasizing the role of sacrifice and divine support in the life of a believer.
"Then you will have a great deal to suffer, but the grace of God will be with you and will strengthen you".
Comfort in Trial: It serves as a reminder of divine support during hardship.
Spiritual Calling: It marked the beginning of a series of monthly apparitions that included the "Three Secrets of Fatima" and culminated in the "Miracle of the Sun" in October 1917.
"but he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.' I will all the more gladly boast of my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me". 2 Corinthians 12:9
The "Thorn in the Flesh": Paul is discussing a "thorn in the flesh" (a trial or physical infirmity) that he pleaded with God to remove, but God instead offered sufficient grace.
Strength in Weakness: The passage signifies that true spiritual strength is realized when one relies entirely on God rather than self-reliance.
Boasting in Infirmity: Paul accepts weaknesses, insults, and hardships for Christ's sake, concluding that "whenever I am weak, then I am strong".
Grace and Power: The "power of Christ" (or "virtue of Christ" in some translations) dwells within the believer, providing strength in difficult,, or humiliating situations.
Contentment: Rather than focusing on removing the trial, the Catholic perspective often highlights finding peace and contentment in God’s grace despite the circumstances.
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