“Encourage each other daily, while it is still today.” -St. Paul in his letter to the Hebrews.
Listening to Catholic radio on my way into work this morning, radio host Gus Lloyd reminded everyone that an important part of being a Christian is to give encouragement to others.
What does that mean?
When people are struggling, whether they’re just having a bad day or maybe dealing with serious issues, what can we do to be encouraging? How can we help, especially when we might not understand the depth of their struggle?
Pope Francis recently said that sometimes there really isn’t anything you can say to make them feel better. In these cases, he said, it’s best to just be there and cry with them.
Having been on the receiving end of well-wishers who maybe haven’t understood the depth of the problem being faced, I think he’s right.
But here’s the thing. There is one thing that can always be said, no matter the situation.
“You are loved.”
And isn’t that what the pope’s tears of solidarity are really saying, after all?
You are loved.
I’m no expert, but I believe that is what is at the very core of being a Christian. Knowing that we are loved in spite of everything, and spreading that love to everyone, everywhere.
So to everyone, no matter who you are or what you may be going through, take courage and remember that you are loved.
Now let’s get out there and spread this.
Tales from the Valley 