Jesus said to Nicodemus: ..."For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him."
We do enough condemning in our lifetime. Now imagine what we would be like if we could see the private lives of others? What would happen to us and to them? What would we think of our closest friends, family members and colleagues? Would we be shocked and confused or understanding and compassionate? I dread to think of this.
But for this reason alone, the Lord's words take on extra meaning: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life."
Jesus knows me. He knows everything about me. He knows my thoughts day in and day out. He knows my words, even the one's I say under my breath. He knows all my actions: alone and in the company of others.
And still, He can say with all sincerity: God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him."
How can God have so much patience for us? Isn't He sick and tired of us by now? Apparently not.
What has always come easy to God no longer comes easy to us. That's why we need His grace and virtues like faith, hope and love.
In a very good way God is full of himself, he doesn't need any faith, hope or (our) love. Unfortunately, we are full of ourselves too, and that's why we need plenty of faith, hope and (His) love.
Christ wants us to empty ourselves from ourselves, and fill our hearts and minds up with Him. This constitutes Christ's plan for saving the world. In other words, by saving the world for ourselves the Lord planned on saving it from ourselves!
Be patient. The virtues allow us to be much more patient with ourselves and with others. Is there any wonder why our patience runs so thin? This is nothing knew to God. He is used to us by now. Is this not the story of our lives? In fact, is this not the story of the Chosen People: "With their patience worn out by the journey, the people complained against God and Moses..." (Num. 21:4b)?
If you noticed, the Jews took their frustrations out on the two people who loved them the most: God and Moses. Children often take out their frustration on the people who love them the most: mom and dad. Can you see some divine comedy in all of this?
So what must we do? Exactly what He did! Empty yourself, pick up your cross [son and daughter], and follow Him. The Lord has allowed all parents to undergo the same treatment He undergoes on a daily basis. It's only fair, for all fathers and mothers receive their names from God the Father and Mother. It is a blessing, even if it is in disguise.
Today is the feast of the exultation of the Holy Cross. May God's grace plus human virtues form a Holy alliance that helps deliver us from all evils.
Good Morning Father,
ReplyDeleteI just came back from a Montserrat Silent Retreat yesterday. What a peaceful and rejuvenating experience! It's been over 14 years since I last visited this sacred place. How harmonious to be one with nature and Our Lord even for a brief weekend. The theme of the retreat was the 9 Fruits of the Holy Spirit. Our retreat director presented the Holy Spirit as a jewel with all of its "facets" made up of joy, kindness, gentleness, patience, self-control, faithfulness, peace, goodness and love. Patience makes it much easier to engage in all of the other virtues of the Holy Spirit....
During the weekend of silence, I realized how impatient I've been with myself. It's difficult for me to forgive and forget sins I've committed...and all of the ways I've been so ungrateful.....
Three days before my retreat the air conditioner decided to go out in my car. I didn't have time to get it fixed so I drove all the way to Lake Dallas with the windows down experiencing the not-so-pleasant heat, humidity and ozone. I arrived drenching in sweat really frustrated that another "cross" entered my life. I began to worry how I'd find the money to fix the air and decided that I'd go without for as long as I can stand it! (It should be ok until the winter and I can't use the defroster...uh) I thank God that my 10 year old vehicle is still running and a reliable form of transportation.
Blessings,
-Jennifer
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