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A St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross Novena for the Discerning Heart

Day 4 – Joy Amidst Suffering

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

To suffer and to be happy although suffering, to have one’s feet on the earth, to walk on the dirty and rough paths of this earth and yet to be enthroned with Christ at the Father’s right hand, to laugh and cry with the children of this world and to sing praises with the angels—this is the life of the Christian until the morning of eternity breaks forth.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross reflects on the paradoxical nature of Christian life, where joy and suffering coexist. She emphasizes the need to embrace both aspects, finding joy not in the absence of suffering but in the presence of faith and hope. Edith Stein’s experiences during the tumultuous times of World War II, including her martyrdom at Auschwitz, reflect her profound acceptance of suffering and unwavering faith in God’s plan.

To suffer and to be happy although suffering, to have one’s feet on the earth, to walk on the dirty and rough paths of this earth and yet to be enthroned with Christ at the Father’s right hand, to laugh and cry with the children of this world and to sing praises with the angels—this is the life of the Christian until the morning of eternity breaks forth.*

How can you find joy and maintain faith amidst the trials and sufferings of life?
Focus on the hope and promise of eternal life, finding joy in the presence of God and the support of the Christian community. Trust in God’s providence and look for blessings and opportunities to grow in faith during difficult times.

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

All-powerful, ever-living God,

you gave Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

the courage to witness to the gospel of Christ

even to the point of giving her life for it.

By her prayers, help us to endure all suffering for love of you

and to seek you with all our hearts,

for you alone are the source of life.

Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

*Citation: Edith Stein, Self-Portrait in Letters, 1916-1942. Translated by Josephine Koeppel, The Collected Works of Edith Stein, Volume 1 (ICS Publications, 1993), p. 93.