Pope says the patience of the people of God makes the Church go ahead

February 17, 2014 - The patience of the people of God who bear the daily trials of life with faith is what makes the Church go ahead, said Pope Francis on Monday. Celebrating his morning Mass in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta residence in the Vatican the Pope reflected on St. James who in his letter says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds." The Pope said this is not an invitation to asceticism. Patience is not the same as surrendering. Rather, patience leads us to maturity by helping us endure life’s trials. The Pope compared impatient people to capricious children who want everything, all at once and in a hurry. For them it is either this or nothing - nothing suits them.

Another mark of impatience is the omnipotence "of wanting just one thing,” as is the case with the Pharisees who want a miracle from Jesus as a sign from heaven. The Pope said God, who does not act like a sorcerer, moves in His own way and is patient Himself. Every time we go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, is a hymn of praise to God's patience! Pope Francis commended the patience of families who care for their sick and suffering without asking for signs like the Pharisees. Instead, they read the signs of the times and recognize Jesus. The Pope said those who suffer do not lose the smile and joy of faith, and they are the ones who make the Church go ahead with their holiness every day.