Did you know that being a Catholic is a radical idea? It is not easy to live out our Faith in today’s society. We are totally counter-cultural. Growing up in the sixties I used to hear these terms a lot. In our Catholic life however, they are quite different. We are called to elevate our thinking and transform our minds and our hearts so as to lead people into the ways of Christ.
This week’s readings are all about this type of transformation. We are told by the great prophet Ezekiel to turn from our wicked ways and to turn to God. By doing so, we will have life. This is easier said than done, especially when the allurements of the world and the sins of the flesh are blasted across our media and internet. However, we are given 24 new hours every day and in each moment we can choose to turn to God and raise ourselves out of our past behavior. So don’t get depressed, but rather ask God to open your heart and mind and make the decision to trust Him in all that you do. You will be amazed how your life begins to change.
The next reading is one of my all time favorite scripture passages, St. Paul tells the Philippians that God emptied Himself and became one of us taking the form of a slave and facing death, even death on a cross. Think about how very profound this passage is. God loves you so much that He poured Himself out for us because He loves you and me. He wants us to transform our way of thinking and acting. We have all done silly, bone headed things in our lives. Perhaps we made wrong choices or decisions that have led us away from His love. If this has happened to you, then I have great news for you. Our Lord Jesus is calling you to trust in Him.
In the Gospel, Jesus relays the story of two sons who are to do the Father’s will. One says “no” at first but then does what was asked. The other son says he will do it, but doesn’t. When asked the Pharisees tell Jesus that the first son did the father’s will. They are right, but they fail to see that Jesus is talking about them. So often we resist change. It is uncomfortable and we just want things as they are. Jesus calls us to a higher understanding. So this week try turning all of your everyday occurrences to God and ask Him to open you up to being the super natural radical Catholic person you were born to be. Something to think on. And may God richly bless you always!