Dr. Helen Titilola OLOJEDE

 

“I can do all things in him who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13)

As the Holy season of Lent is more than halfway gone, Lent fatigue can creep in, and we tend to relax in all that we have been doing to observe the season. More importantly, given that we are not supposed to go back to our old ways, I bring to you the gift of fortitude, hoping that we will receive the grace of fortitude and courage to finish Lent strong and abide in the good habits we have cultivated.

Fortitude is the strength and bravery that comes from Christ. The term ‘fortitude’ has similar roots as the word ‘fort’ which means strength or power. Therefore, the gift of fortitude is the gift of strength to be brave in the midst of adversaries or when you would rather run and take cover. Or persist in following God even when it does not seem to pay off as expected. This is why CCC refers to fortitude as “firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good” (1837). It is the gift that exemplifies the phrase “fear not.” It helps us overcome our fears and be steadfast in the Lord even when faced with obstacles.

Another word for the gift of fortitude is the gift of courage. This gift strengthens us to stand up for what is right in a world plagued by vices. It helps us to abide by God and His values and to be bearers of His truths. It enables you to stand up for good and convicts you to do so when the occasion arises, even if it is only you standing up for the good.

Which Saint illustrates the gift of Fortitude?

St. Maximilian Kolbe. Kolbe, during the Nazi German invasion of Poland in 1939, graciously offered himself to die in place of Franciszek Gajowniczek, a man who had been selected to die in the starvation bunker. Kolbe said, “I am a Catholic priest from Poland; I would like to take his place because he has a wife and children.” Kolbe indeed died.

How can you cultivate the gift of fortitude?

1. By persistently asking for it in prayer, remember it is a gift given by the Holy Spirit
2. By maintaining a sense of humility and docility to God and the promptings of the Holy Spirit.

Esther, Susanna, Daniel and a host of other Bible characters exhibited courage and fortitude in various ways.

Come, O Spirit of Fortitude, and give fortitude to our souls. Make our hearts strong in all trials and in all distress, pouring forth abundantly into them the gifts of strength, that we may be able to resist the attacks of the devil.