+ One of the biggest spiritual lessons that anyone can learn is that
everyone is considered a
sinner in the sight of God. At first hearing we balk at this because
there is sin, and then there is sin. And
for the most part the sins that I commit are nowhere near what the sins of others can be measured as! This
may be true! But, nevertheless, this does not preclude the fact, and it is a
fact, that everyone sins. And why? Because no one is perfect! Not even
the most saintly monk in a monastery, or nun in a convent high on a hill! And
this is a good thing: because unless God
sees us as sinners, as weak, dependent persons: then he has no reason to show
us his mercy, his compassion, forgiveness and love. And when push comes to
shove at the end of our journey – we will come up lacking the necessary
qualification to enter eternal life: and that qualification is having the Blood of Christ poured out upon
us! And that Blood is poured when we see ourselves as we are in God’s
sight, and we allow him to grant us redemption, mercy and life!
And so, if God sees us this
way – and is so very willing to give us a tremendous break – the break of our
very lives; then should we not “give each other a break.” While there is no
excuse for uncouth, undisciplined and ungodly behavior – at least when it
happens we might get farther in trying to help others turn to God for instruction, healing and mercy, if we see them with
gentler eyes, and hear them with gentler ears (as we would want to be seen and
heard)! Most people are truly trying to do the best they can; and so many of
them can get very lost in doing this; it is by our example as REDEEMED,
FORGIVEN and JOYFUL CATHOLICS that we can give them hope, and reduce the
tension between ourselves and all of them. We are all in the same boat; but
fortunately it is the bark of Peter;
and it shall not be capsized or destroyed: the
powers of hell shall not prevail against it! Let us reside and abide in it
with deep faith, and an atmosphere of lively hope!
Come
to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest, says the
Lord.
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