Do you know what the worst thing in life is? The worst thing in life is not to be a saint. Leon Bloy said, “The only real sadness in life, the only real failure in life, the only real tragedy in life, is not to be a saint.”
In the first reading, the Lord said to Moses, “Speak to the whole assembly of the children of Israel and tell them: Be holy, for I, the Lord, your God, am holy.” The call is clear: the measure of our holiness is that of God himself. “To be holy, then, is to be in communion with God and also with one’s fellow saints.” (Scott Hahn)
We know it is not easy, but we can grow in holiness and be more Christ-like every day by practicing humility and kindness, serving others, forgiving, listening, and praying every day.
- Practice humility: We can be more Christ-like by being humble and putting the needs of others before our own. We can also be open to learning from others and accepting feedback with grace.
- Practice kindness: We can be more Christ-like by practicing kindness, appreciating a family member, giving a smile, saying hello, and offering words of encouragement.
- Serve others: We can be more Christ-like by serving others. I was edified to see a husband washing the feet of his wife and children and setting an example of humility and service. We can volunteer at a soup kitchen, visit the elderly, or help a friend in need. By serving others, we show them the love of Christ.
- Forgive: We can be more Christ-like by practicing forgiveness, by letting go of grudges and resentments, and by forgiving those who have wronged us.
- Listen: We can be more Christ-like by listening and empathizing with others.
- Pray: We can be more Christ-like by connecting with God through prayer. We can make time for prayer in our daily lives, whether it is in the morning, during our commute, or before bed. We could probably rise early during this Lent to spend a little more time in prayer.
So, friends, the best thing that can happen to you and to me in this life is to become saints and be filled with joy. What a wonderful way to be Christ-like every day.
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