Praying for Our "Frustrations"

Jesus tells us to pray for our enemies, so we should; no doubt about it. Yet, if we are to pray for our enemies, then should we not also pray for those who are not our enemies but who make us want to pull our hair out? After all, it is far too easy just to write them off and ignore them. Whether it be the guy that cut you off while driving, or a noisy neighbor, or that relative who thinks you are nuts for being Catholic, prayers for them is a way of helping them, and a way of helping yourself to deal with them in a more godly manner.

I have taken this principle and applied it to my work as a priest. There are certain days during the year when a priest can choose a Mass for "Various Needs". One of those Masses that can be said is, "For the Pope", and it asks that he would be faithful and lead us rightly. It prays that he would be a good example to all the faithful and that he would be protected from "all adversities".

I would not say that Pope Francis is my enemy, but I will admit that there are times when he challenges me. It is quite regular for me to have to say that I do not understand what he has said, or things that he has done or decisions he has made. This means that I seek, whenever possible, to offer up a Mass for Pope Francis, as I did a few days ago. This also helps me to learn to respect the office of the papacy even though I may be confused by the man who currently holds that office.

I encourage you to do something similar on your part. How about that guy at your work that irritates the living daylights out of you; could you have a Mass said for him? Maybe the professor or student that you wish you could avoid forever; can you ask for a Mass intention for them? Imagine the grace that would come to you for doing this, and the grace that would come to them as well! The spiritual repercussions are more than we will ever know.