Perseverance

Many years ago, after praying for some days, a young man decided to become a priest and to devote himself to the area of central Africa.  Some six or seven years later, he accomplished that goal, and three years after that he was sent to the area of central Africa as a missionary.  He and his companions fell ill and eventually had to return home.  But his dream did not die.  Daniel Comboni persevered.  He founded a new male religious order and went back to Africa.  Even today the Comboni missionaries are known for their work in Africa.

What does this say to us about prayer?  Fifteen-year-old Daniel prayed and made a promise to God about his life.  He saw that promise through to initial completion with his first assignment to Africa.  Although he suffered a setback with his illness and the illness of his companions, he did not let his return home quench the desire and the promise of his life.  He persevered in prayer and in action.  He found a new group of men, inspired them with his goal, and ventured forth once again.

Our promises to God may not seem as lofty as Fr. Comboni's.  They may not require going to another country to bring the Good News.  For most of us our mission territory is our family - spouse, children, brothers and sisters.  In the territory of our homes, we suffer setbacks, illness and rejections.  Sometimes we have to fall back and regroup, vowing to do better another day.

Prayer helps us to keep the end in mind - our salvation and the salvation of others.  Prayer helps us to persevere and it keeps us in touch with our source of strength.  Perseverance in prayer is powerful.