Bearing Wrongs Patiently: A Work of Mercy

Anne DeSantis emphasizes the importance of living out the Spiritual Works of Mercy, with a focus on bearing wrongs patiently.

To bear wrongs patiently is one of the seven Spiritual Works of Mercy of the Catholic Church. Within our daily family life, we are often tempted to be impatient with ourselves and those around us. This happens when a situation occurs that tempts us to be impatient and unforgiving, especially something that is “wrong” both in our eyes and in the eyes of God. Here are a few ways to bear wrongs patiently. 

Developing our Faith 

The first step in understanding how to better deal with the unjust situations that occur in our lives is to develop our faith to a greater degree. Wherever you are in the spectrum of full knowledge of the teachings of the Church, there is always room to learn more. Delving into the Catechism of the Catholic Church, reading Holy Scripture, and participating in the sacramental life of the Church are some of the best ways to develop our faith to a greater degree. This enables us to understand the works of mercy and why they are imperative to living a life devoted to the Gospel of Christ. 

Praying

Prayer is always especially important in bearing wrongs patiently! Prayer is our connection with God, and in prayer we can ask the Holy Spirit for help to overcome temptation and attempt to be more patient. Whether we pray a Rosary, Our Father, Hail Mary, or other prayer in moments of weakness, prayer enables us to get through the tough times and to ask God for His assistance at all times. Don’t give up on yourself, even during a dark moment, as the Lord will guide you to get through times of impatience in family life. 

Becoming less self-focused 

When we become more focused on others and less focused on ourselves, we will naturally begin to be more patient. We live in a world which emphasizes the “me first” attitude, and this way of thinking has permeated the Church as well. Listening to others, caring, and being less self-centered will help us to bear wrongs patiently each day. Active listening, which is the skill of listening intently to another person, is a major way to take the focus of ourselves. This is all done with God’s help and through prayer. 

The suggestions above are simple ways to bear wrongs patiently each day in order to live out the Spiritual Works of Mercy in following Christ. Family life will always come with challenges, but through the grace of God and perseverance, we can strive to live the Gospel more fully every day of our lives. We can pray for the intercession of the saints in our attempts to live full lives dedicated to the Lord as we serve those around us. 

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Copyright 2024 Anne DeSantis
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