How can we reconcile various passages in Scripture

Rejoice always, I say again, Rejoice.

Pray always.

Pick up your cross daily

Deny yourself

"Do this in memory of me"

Easy:  Learn to "convert" all moments into prayer, an intimate conversation with God. 

Our whole day then becomes an endless means & opportunity to "exchange" with God.

We offer Him, we exchange, our suffering out of love for Him; we give not just joys but also sufferings a supernatural intention...for the pope, for the pagans, for my wife, for my sins, for graces for this priest, or that sister, for graces and favors for my children.

No day is boring then. Every day & every minute becomes exhilarating and lively, a continuous meeting with Jesus Christ.  

This red light, this flat tire, this chore, this joy, this fine food, this deadline, this irritable boss...nothing is kept from God, it's all shared with Him and He sweetens it for us, it may not get easy, but it gets easier and sweeter.  "My burden is light."