In other words, a.) "Your sufferings are valuable when accepted as gift from the Most High God, who draws his beloved ones into the Passion of his Son and allows them to enter into his redemption, by acquiring graces for souls in need. Be mindful that this is an opportunity for you to bring grace to others." b.) "Do you lack the inner constitution to cope with this small matter? Deal with it, kiddo, and be mindful that this is an opportunity for you to bring grace to others"
The theological meaning behind "offer it up" is significant; Catholics know that personal suffering takes on a sacrificial and priestly character when offered to God on behalf of others. For maximal spiritual effect of "offer it up," it is best to entrust the thing offered directly to the hands of Our Lady that she may direct the grace to whom she wishes. Possible recipients of the grace that comes from this disposition of the heart: the souls in purgatory, a suffering family member, obnoxious kid brothers, the guy who cut me off on the highway, Lady Gaga, and really anyone.
"Offer it up" also has a wide range of usage. It can also be substituted for such secular phrases as "be a man!" or "tough it out!" Depending on the emotional state of the one receiving the comment, caution is urged.
Difficulty understanding the various sayings you hear your Catholic friends stating? Have a phrase you hear Catholics say often but don't know what it means? Share your thoughts via email at thecharcoalfire(at)gmail.com.
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