Hope in the Midst of Trials

There are times in life when we all experience difficult trials or are asked to carry particularly heavy crosses. We may have to manage financial burdens, deal with an unexpected diagnosis, grieve the loss of a loved one, or endure countless other difficulties. In these times, we can feel isolated and alone, even forgotten by God, which only adds to our stress or sadness.  

Sometimes it is difficult to hope.  

I have found that spending time with the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary brings me back to the hope of heaven during my most difficult times.  

We Are Never Alone and Never Forgotten  

What I see in the Luminous Mysteries is Jesus telling us over and over again that He is with us every step of the way. During the good times and the bad, in sickness and in health, He is the Bridegroom, and we are the bride.  

• The Baptism of Jesus shows us His humble love for us. He did not need to be baptized for Himself, but He humbled Himself to be baptized for our sake. 

• The Miracle at Cana tells us that Jesus cares for our most basic, temporal needs as well as our big trials and difficulties. 

• The Proclamation of the Kingdom of God brings us hope for eternal life through the preaching and healing of Jesus. His parables and many miracles, His call for our repentance, all point us to the ultimate goal of heaven. 

• The Transfiguration reminds us that Jesus doesn't want us to fear. When we, like the apostles, want to throw ourselves to the ground in fear and hide, we can look up and see Jesus waiting there, telling us not to be afraid. 

• The Institution of the Eucharist teaches us that we truly are never alone. Jesus has not, and will not ever, leave us. We can always find Him in the Eucharist; His Heart is waiting to comfort you there. 

When It Is Most Difficult to Hope  

I encourage you to pray the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary and then walk through them with Jesus by your side.   

Remember the graces bestowed on you at your Baptism; they are real and present in your soul. Ask Jesus to help you in even your most basic needs; share your troubles with Him; talk to Him about what worries you. Frequent the Sacraments and visit Jesus in the Eucharist.  

Even if you can't get away to Adoration or daily Mass, you can always visit with Jesus in the oratory of your heart. He waits for you there and wants to bring you the hope you seek. 

For the Jubilee of Hope, our writers reflect on prayer as a source of hope in their lives.

Copyright 2025 Margaret Rash
Images: Holy Cross Family Ministries