Journey of trials

One day in 2002, while strolling around winding paths in a field, a certain melody came to my mind. Then, I kept singing the resounding melody again and again. In this way, I composed my song entitled “Journey of Trials.”

The title of the song originated from a book by Fr. James Alberione, the founder of our religious congregation. As I kept singing, I realized that all of us are undergoing the same journey, which comprises various trials and tribulations in some form or other. Truly, we are constantly going through a process of ups and downs in many ways.

Since then, I sang “Journey of Trials” from time to time on special occasions. Now, when I go on mission trips to Canada, especially after Communion, during Mass in the Korean Catholic communities, I sing this song while playing the guitar. And I see many people appreciate the meaning of the song and they are touched by the lyrics. The story of “Journey of Trials” is as follows:

Just as Jesus needed 30 years, just as the Israelites needed 40 years, we also needed a long time.

All of this was the providence of God.

At one time, no matter how I looked at it, it seemed like I was walking in place. So, I wanted to sit down without thinking.

But looking back, it was all a gift from God.

A journey of trials that we must go through.

Now Christ will live in me. When we meet again, I will ask one another.

How much do you resemble Jesus? How much did you love with all your strength?

Many people shed tears while appreciating it. I am also always touched by this song whenever I sing it. Recently as I sang it at eight o’clock Mass on Sunday in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Toronto, and I could not help but have a lump in my throat. Our lives are filled with amazing graces that lead to the theme of a popular allegorical poem titled “Footprints in the Sand.” It tells a story of a person who sees only one pair of footprints in the sand.

One night I dreamed a dream. As I was walking along the beach with my Lord.

Across the dark sky flashed scenes from my life.

... After the last scene of my life flashed before me,

I looked back at the footprints in the sand.

I noticed that at many times along the path of my life,

especially at the very lowest and saddest times,

there was only one set of footprints.

This really troubled me, so I asked the Lord about it.

....

He whispered, “My precious child, I love you and will never leave you

Never, ever, during your trials and testings.

When you saw only one set of footprints,

It was then that I carried you.”