“I have called upon Thee in the day of my trouble” (Psalm 85. 7). Jesus is our comforter. What burden is there which He cannot lighten? What cross that He cannot make sweet? Be our troubles what they may, if only we will call on Jesus and implore His aid, we shall find our sufferings lessened and the rough ways smoothed for our bleeding feet.

COMMENT: Fr Doyle knew what he was talking about; he lived the reality of suffering in a way that few of us can ever realise. Let us imitate him by increasing our trust in God. Whether we face only minor inconveniences and frustrations or major, life-altering problems, we will find help if we turn to Christ.

In one week we shall celebrate the birth of Christ. What an incredible event this was in history – God became man in order that we might be saved. Jesus has experienced poverty, pain, loneliness, betrayal, tiredness, hunger, temptation, and all for love of us. How can we ever doubt Him? How can we ever fail to turn to Him when we are in need?