The Blessing in the Struggle and the Heart of the Shepherd

Gen 32:22-32; Psalm: 16; Mt 9:32-38

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today, we will reflect on the truth wrapped in the paradox of struggle, a blessing hidden beneath the weight of our burdens. We will delve into the essence of wrestling with God, the transformative power of our struggles, and the compassionate heart of our Shepherd. Let us turn to the story of Jacob in Genesis 32. As night fell, Jacob found himself alone by the Jabbok River, wrestling with a mysterious figure. This divine encounter in his vulnerability did not come easily. Jacob fought and struggled, gripping tightly to the one who challenged him. In that moment of conflict, he was transformed. No longer would he be known merely as Jacob, the deceiver. He became Israel, one who has struggled with God and prevailed. This transformation of identity is the first blessing we receive in our struggles. When we wrestle with God, we are often confronted with our deepest fears and insecurities. Yet, it is in this sacred space of vulnerability that God meets us. We find that our struggles are not merely obstacles but a pathway to holiness. There is sacramental symbolism in this wrestling match. Just as Jacob emerged with a limp, so too can we embrace our own struggles as marks of our faith journey. Our limp is a reminder of the grace we receive through our trials.

In Matthew 9, we encounter Christ, the Divine Physician. As He walked among the broken, He showed authority over evil and offered compassion to those in need. He looked upon them with love, recognizing their struggles and extending a mission of mercy. This is the heart of our Shepherd. Jesus does not shy away from our pain. Instead, He invites us to bring our brokenness to Him. He is the liberator who desires to heal not just our bodies but our very souls.

As we reflect on these passages, we realize that struggle is a path to holiness. In our redemptive suffering, we participate in the very life of Christ. We are called to embrace this struggle, to engage in a heartfelt wrestling with God in prayer. In our conversations with Him, we can express our doubts, our fears, and our desires. It is through this wrestling that we grow stronger in faith and deeper in love. Yet, we must also combat spiritual muteness. In a world that often silences the cries of the broken, we must be voices of hope and encouragement. Each one of us has a role to play as laborers in the harvest. We are called to reach out to those around us who feel lost or alone, extending the compassion we have received from our Shepherd.

As we leave this place today, I urge you to embrace your limp, your struggles, and your vulnerability. Do not shy away from them but recognize them as the blessings that lead to transformation. Wrestle with God in prayer, and allow Him to shape your identity and purpose. Remember that you are not alone. You are part of a community of laborers, called to bring light into the darkness. Let us go forth today, inspired by the heart of the Shepherd, ready to embrace the blessings in our struggles. Amen.

St. Bernard of Clairvaux on Jacob’s struggle:
“At Peniel, Jacob learned that God is won not by cunning but by perseverance. His limp was the trophy of his victory.”

St. Teresa of Avila on spiritual battle:
“In darkness, confusion, and exhaustion, cling to God like Jacob. Grace comes when we refuse to let go.”

Pope Francis on Matthew 9:
“Jesus’ heart breaks for the lost. If ours do not, we must pray: ‘Lord, shatter my complacency! Make me a laborer for Your harvest.’” (Homily, 2018)

St. Pio of Pietrelcina on suffering:
“Your wounds are the workshops of divine grace. Offer your pain to Christ, and He will transform it into salvation.”