Mother Theresa was a much loved and respected icon during her lifetime, an example of faith, self-sacrifice and concern for the poor and abandoned.

People of all faiths still see her as a role model.

Some people were stunned at the recent release of some of her writings describing the dark side of her spiritual journey.

Such difficulties on the journey of faith are not surprising to those who are familiar with the struggles of saints and mystics throughout the ages. To study these fascinating lives can enrich us spiritually on our journey of faith.

We live in a country that has an incredible influence on the world. American TV and film is a staple around the world. It causes people in other countries to admire us and to fear our influence at the same time.

People in other countries can't figure out why we have so much violence, millions of people in prison, many children who are hungry and homeless, and yet we claim to be a nation of believers.

In the Hebrew scriptures, the prophets judged people by how they treated the most vulnerable among them as well as their faith in the one God. In such an affluent society as ours, our faith can often be self-centered, a "What's in it for me"? approach.

The heart of the Gospel is abandoning our selfishness and having enough trust in God to seek and follow the path that he has for each one of us, his beloved children.

We want instant gratification, but relationships can be difficult and stressful — even our relationship with God.

Mother Theresa, as well as other great spiritual figures throughout history, teaches us that faith is a journey. Are we mature enough to face the difficult steps on the journey? Even painful ones?

A mature faith will help us in these moments to be stronger in our faith and to grow in compassion for those who are hurting.

Mother Theresa once told us that God does not always expect us to be successful, "only faithful."

How different the world would be if we all had the faith, conviction and compassion of such a disciple of the Lord.

The Rev. Jack Ryan is a Catholic priest and pastor of St. John the Baptist in Kalihi. Expressions of Faith is a column that welcomes submissions from pastors, priests, lay workers and other leaders in faith and spirituality. E-mail faith@honoluluadvertiser.com or call 525-8035. Articles submitted to The Advertiser may be published or distributed in print, electronic or other forms.