From Sept. 27, 2009 Gospel: Luke 7:11-17 The American religion tends to equate faith with success, prosperity, and health. If you lead a good life, good things will come to you. One slogan puts it this way: “God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life.” The first part is true. But God’s plan for the followers of Jesus might not be what the world calls “wonderful.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s famous saying is more accurate: “When God calls a man, He bids him come and die.” Faith or obedience will not eliminate tribulations in our life. Afflictions come to the faithful to strengthen their faith further. Whom the Lord loves, He chastens.