The two readings of today helps us see that there are blessings hidden within our sorrow, struggles and pain.
In the first reading, Jacob is reunited with his favorite son, Joseph, whom he though was dead. Jacob continued to be faithful to God and did not grow bitter when he thought that God had taken his favorite boy. Instead, He lifted everything up to God whom He worship everyday of his life. And Jacob, because of his faithfulness, received the graciousness of God when Joseph was reunited with him, and now an official that will alleviate the suffering of his people during the time of famine. Jacob received so much blessings in the first reading. First, He is son is alive and back in his arm. Second, His people survived the famine because God will feed his people through Joseph.
The gospel speaks of facing difficult times without losing hope and faith in God. Jesus tells his disciples that they will face persecution. But He also assures his disciples of the Holy Spirit that will guide them what to do and say before the authority/people that persecute them.
We always should be reminded that God is never absent from the working of our lives. He knows what we are going through, and He works toward our ultimate happiness. what we can only do is to trust Him everyday of lives.