The Power of "Offering it Up"

I'm sure if you're a Catholic you've heard the words... "Offer it up". 

But what does it mean?

In the Catholic faith, we believe suffering is a way of being close to Christ. St. Padre Pio once said:

"Suffering born in a Christian way is the condition that God, the author of all grace and of all the gifts that lead to salvation, has established for granting us glory."

He also states that if one was to see the glory of heaven, and the reward of suffering... we would never stop asking Christ for trials and hardships. 

When I was little, I would get sick and my grandparents would always end our conversation over the phone with "offer it up for the poor souls". This became a constant reminder, that whenever I endured a troubling time, to give it back. Almost like a "pay it forward", I turn my hardship into prayer. I sometimes play a game of sorts... telling Jesus to give my prayers and suffering to the soul in purgatory that's most in need. Whoever is way in the back, gathering dust - no family, no prayers, give it to them. 

I can admit, it's hard. Most people, including myself - find themselves looking inward constantly. We like sickness because it gives us attention, it gives us care. While on the other side of the coin, it's hard to endure, and we victimize ourselves. What better way to pray, then to suffer with Christ on the cross, and give that back to the poor souls in purgatory. 

I also find that many people dislike suffering. In a modern age, we have become so accustomed to good times, that we disregard the merit of pain, suffering and closeness with Christ. We'd rather go to Mass on Sunday, say our prayers, AND have everything going well. Sometimes, we don't get that - and as it's explained in "The Imitation of Christ", sometimes the trials we are given, are the utmost example of Christ's love for us - he is helping us to attain heaven through suffering here on Earth. 

EMBRACE IT.

Today is a special day because we also celebrate the 131st birthday of St. Padre Pio - a great day for the voting booth in Ireland to help #Savethe8th.

Let's offer up any trials, pains, or burdens we have for the hearts of those going into the voting booth in Ireland. That hard hearts change to a "No" vote, and the lives of innocent little babies, can continue unharmed. Let's also continue this in our every day lives. Giving every hard moment, a purpose. 

We must all carry our cross. We must all be a Veronica and Simon. Ready to help and aid those in need, and give to Christ all that we have. 

I also encourage you to stop what you're doing and say a quick prayer.

Hail Mary, full of grace,
the Lord is with you.
Blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.

In this month of May, Mary our mother is closer to us than we can possible imagine. Remember her daily in your prayers, and pray for peace around the world. Also pray for the ability to endure the hardships we are given, and that if need be, we have the courage to stand up for our faith in moments that could make us a martyr. 

Signed,

The Girl in the Mantilla

+JMJ+