Today's Thoughts...

Today’s Thoughts: First of all let me say to all who stopped by the web site looking for my reflections yesterday, I am sorry they were not here. I got busy and had a morning mass that I was not originally scheduled for and never got back to writing down my reflections.

​Our readings today are point and counterpoint to each other. They warn of the inherent pitfalls of sin. In the Book of Wisdom, we hear “think of the Lord in goodness, and seek him in integrity of heart.” Yet we also hear a warning to be spiritually fit and be free of sin and injustice. Without being in that state we can be shut out from the grace of God.
 
Luke’s gospel continues to talk about sin, which is not a topic that most of us like to embrace with vigor. Perhaps it is because we have been influenced too much by societal norms which seem to reject the notion of sin in the modern world. As we reflect on the readings today, the words of Pope Francis come to mind when he asks, “Who Is Jorge Mario Bergoglio?” and he responds, “I am a sinner.” Perhaps it is good to know that we are the same company as the Pope.
 
Our readings not only dwell on the effects of sin but also the resolution to bring us back into the light of the Spirit. We see in Wisdom that the all-embracing God knows our heart and will acquit us if we are truly repentant. In Luke we hear a lesson on how to forgive others. If someone wrongs us seven times a day, we are called to forgive seven times. Yes, we are called to constantly forgive, God in his unquantifiable love forgives us if we truly have a repentant heart.
 
The work of forgiveness is never finished. It is an ongoing process until we meet God face to face. Have a great Monday everyone.