This is a very difficult question today. If you ask people what is true, they will ask you in return, in which context? Do you want truth in the context of politics, economics, socially or religious? The problem is relativism. Truth depends on me or what I belief. However, as Christian pursuit of truth is our goal and we always have the answer, Jesus Christ.
The Gift of Understanding
God gave us gift of understanding and interpretation of our world. We can tell the behavioral changes of our surroundings, like the weather focus. However, this should not blind us to realize there is something more than interpretation. In other words, Jesus wants us to answer the question where is, his place within us. Apart from what I know, or what, I am well acquitted with, where is the space of God within me.
This text warns us against human autonomy; believing that I know it all or by my own effort I can attain the righteousness needed. In such sense one ignores the grace which St Augustines tells us it “builds within our nature.” In the same context we do not realize the presence of the other person and so we live our lives as if governed by only human laws and human interpretation. Remember when everything is about humans, then divine power is blocked/limited. Then virtues like mercy and charity are undermined many times.
Prepare for Jesus
Therefore, Jesus brings element of reconciliation with your neighbor. Again, going back to our understanding of truth, which is Jesus we see the need of forgiveness and reconciliation. Remember the story of the woman fought in act of sin in Lk 8-11, and all people saw her as sinful no one could introspect self and see how sinful they are until Jesus said, “He who is without sin among you, let him be first to throw the a stone at her.” Knowing Jesus as truth calls us to be merciful to one another. Interpretation of the presence time is to realize Jesus dwells among us, among our family members, fellow workmates, or anyone I meet. 1Jn 1:20 tells us that you cannot love God and hate your brother or sister. Mother Theresa tells Charity begins at home, be kind to one another. In such acts we are preparing for Jesus coming in everyday activity.
Another aspect of reconciliation is realizing our sinfulness and therefore, through the sacrament of penance, we are meant to be clean. We are pilgrims of Hope build in self-renewal by reconciling with God. Seeking for mercy and forgiveness from God or one another does not make you weak but in fact you the strongest because you overcome the power of pride and self-elevation and take the gift of humility. Therefore, be the one who brings or initiates reconciliation in families, workplaces, or anywhere in the world.
- Today’s Readings
- Father Joachim'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.)
