"Live in such a way that all may know that you bear outwardly as well as inwardly the image of Christ crucified, the model of all gentleness and mercy. For if a man is united inwardly with the Son of the living God, he also bears his likeness outwardly by his continual practice of heroic goodness, and especially through a patience reinforced by courage, which does not complain either secretly or in public. Conceal yourself in Jesus crucified, and hope for nothing except that all men be thoroughly converted to his will." (St. Paul of the Cross)

How does our life match against this model put before us in Christ crucified? Does our life reflect his gentleness and mercy, his patience and goodness in the face of people's negative reaction against us? The way Jesus was able to endure his many sufferings and constant attacks was he knew that he was the beloved Son of the Father, in his humanity. He knew that he came to do the will of the Father even while embracing the anger of others. In this he gives us a model to follow. At all times, but especially in times of difficulties, remember that you are the son or daughter of the Father, who is asking you to unite you will with his. In doing this we will reflect Jesus crucified with the expectantly of reflecting Jesus risen.