Advice in troubled times

In today’s first reading (1 Peter 5:5b-14), Saint Peter writes from a time of trouble: a time of oppression and murderous persecution.

In today’s first reading, Saint Peter also writes to us in a time of trouble: a time of arrongance and selfishness, a time of suffering and the promotion of decadence.

Clothe yourselves with humility
in your dealings with one another, for:

God opposes the proud
but bestows favor on the humble.

So humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God,
that he may exalt you in due time.

Cast all your worries upon him
because he cares for you.

Be sober and vigilant.
Your opponent the Devil is prowling around
like a roaring lion
looking for someone to devour.
Resist him, steadfast in faith,
knowing that your brothers and sisters
throughout the world
undergo the same sufferings.

The God of all grace
who called you to his eternal glory
through Christ Jesus
will himself restore,
confirm,
strengthen,
and establish you
after you have suffered a little.

To him be dominion forever.
Amen.