 Father, in our weakness we are strong for the sake of Christ, whose grace is sufficient for every need. Give comfort to those whose pain is chronic, whose suffering is unknown, who wrestle with difficult thorns in body or mind, who are tempted to despair. In weakness, insults, hardship, persecution, and calamities, let us boast in Christ and his cross, by which we in our suffering are sanctified. Lord, in your mercy.