Most likely each of us has been on the receiving end  of the phrase, “I have good news…I have bad news.” We brace ourselves for what is to follow.
    In today’s first reading, Paul begins with the bad news, we will have to suffer. He states it as a matter of fact, as he does with the good news-we will enter the kingdom of God. Paul’s matter of fact style is a great example for us.
    Sometimes we allow emotions to place us at one end of the spectrum (suffering or glory), while forgetting the other end. Ideally, we maintain a balance between the two extremes, allowing us, like Paul, to continue advancing in the spiritual life as the Lord directs us.