Jesus gives us the beautiful image of a woman who suffers labour pains, but whose joy overshadows everything when she gives birth to her child (Jn. 16:21). We all go through periods of suffering, but if we persevere and trust in the Lord, the "tears at night will be replaced with joy in the morning" (Ps. 30:5). We cannot escape suffering, but we are assured of the grace that leads to victory. Lord Jesus, as we celebrate the power of Your love in our lives, may we choose to offer and align our suffering with Yours on the cross, so that we too may share in the glory of Your resurrection. Amen.