Michelangelo is widely regarded as one of history's most exceptional artists. His masterpieces, including "Pieta," "David," "Moses," and "The Last Judgment," are celebrated for their unparalleled beauty and perfection. Among his remarkable achievements is the series of frescoes on the Sistine Chapel ceiling in the Vatican. Legend has it that while meticulously painting these frescoes, lying on his back for countless hours to perfect every detail, a friend questioned the necessity of such effort for artwork that would be viewed from afar.
The friend asked, "Who will notice if it's perfect or not?" Michelangelo, renowned for his commitment to excellence, simply replied, "I will."
This wasn’t about external validation; it was about internal integrity. It was about a deep-seated need to be authentic in every stroke of his brush, to create something true to the vision within him. This same principle, this pursuit of authenticity, is vital to our spiritual lives. Without it, our spiritual endeavors lack depth and nourishment. True spiritual growth blossoms from a foundation of credibility and authenticity.
In Mark's Gospel, we see this principle played out in the life of Jesus. His ministry was marked by incredible authority and integrity, drawing crowds and transforming lives. Yet, this same authority provoked opposition. The scribes, witnessing Jesus’s power, attributed it to demonic forces, saying, “He is possessed by Beelzebul, and by the prince of demons he casts out demons.” They sought to discredit him, to undermine his authenticity, because they were threatened by the genuine power he exuded.
Teaching with Authority
The people, however, recognized something different. They were astonished by his teaching, noting that he taught with authority, unlike the scribes. They witnessed his power over unclean spirits and marveled. This authority didn’t come from earthly power or social standing; it flowed from his deep and unwavering union with his Heavenly Father. It was rooted in his faithfulness to God’s commands and his undivided devotion.
This begs the question: how authentic are we in our own lives? How credible are we as Christians in our families and in our communities? Authenticity isn’t arrogance; credibility isn’t overconfidence; integrity isn’t self-importance. True authenticity, credibility, and integrity in the Lord are born from being filled with the power of God’s Spirit, imbued with a deep passion for Him and His Church, and living honest lives according to God’s will.
Credible Christian Witness
We are called to examine ourselves. Is our prayer life truly authentic, a genuine raising of our hearts to God? Is our reception of the sacraments leading to a sincere effort to live as true Christians? Is our sharing of God’s word fueled by the Holy Spirit, a credible witness to His kingdom?
Like Michelangelo, let our motivation for seeking perfection in all things not come from external pressures but from the inner conviction to be credible and authentic in all that we do. Let our spiritual lives be guided by this principle: only when credibility and authenticity are pursued can we experience true spiritual growth and nourishment.
- Father Boby's inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center this morning. You can view the Mass (and the Rosary at the 30-minute mark) on the Family Rosary YouTube page.
- To join the Rosary and Mass Livestream, visit the Family Rosary YouTube or Facebook page at 11:30 a.m. Eastern, Monday – Friday. Consider inviting others to join too! (*If you are not a member of Facebook and a signup window appears, simply select the X at the top of the pop-up message and continue to the livestream.)
