Augustine spent over two hours in the water when his boat capsized and was sick for a long time afterwards, which meant his family struggled to get enough food.
“Blessed is anyone who perseveres when trials come. Such a person is of proven worth and will win the prize of life, the crown that God promised to those who love him. ”
We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you,
because by your Holy Cross you have redeemed the world.
Burdened by his heavy cross, worn down by fatigue and pain, Jesus falls. Yet he pushes himself up and continues to walk.
One day, Augustine went out to fish in his canoe in Liberia as usual. But while he was out to sea, his boat capsized. He spent over two hours in the water, trying to stay alive. Fellow fishermen came to his rescue and managed to get him to safety. But, because he had spent so long in the water, he was very unwell for five months afterwards. During this time, Augustine and his family struggled to make ends meet.
He eventually recovered and was able to go back out to sea again, even though he is sometimes fearful, especially in stormy weather.
We pray for all those who face adversity, but continue to persevere. We pray for strength and determination when we face challenges.
Prayer
Jesus, you know how it feels to struggle and to fall.
Walk with us.
Show us how to walk with others
to know what it feels like to be in another's shoes.
You reach out to us with caring hands.
Show us how to join our hands with communities around the world
who are bringing hope to their neighbour.
Amen.
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