15/02/2024

In St Luke's Gospel this morning, Jesus warns his disciples how the life of their incarnate Lord is going to end. I have never in my lifetime completely forgotten the teaching of my penny catechism. "Why did God make me"?. "To know love and serve him in this world and be happy with him in the next".

At the first hearing of this teaching I was aware that I had to live for God for it was through his providence that I was born and lived with my family. It was never straightforward for me and even as a child I was aware that I was often doing wrong and putting myself before Our Father.

I have become increasingly aware throughout my life that I am responsible for everything that I do. I am not constrained in my being by any code or algorithm. My body obeys the laws of nature but my soul has to choose for herself to follow Jesus even when the road to Heaven is full of pitfalls, stumbling blocks and the cul-de-sacs of worldly delights and satisfactions.

I don't think that it is possible that the Apostles and disciples would have understood that the "cross" was  a literal reference to the coming passion and death of Jesus. Jesus as God is totally free he is even free to change the laws of nature revealed by the intelligence of men. 

As true man he shared our freedom to do the will of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and it is as the perfect man that he completes the role of Isaac when taken to see God. He is our Lamb of God provided to take away the sins of the world and in him Father, Son and Holy Spirit is well pleased.

Dear Lord, let me continue throughout this day to be constantly aware that this life is a gift for me to use to do only your will as I continue to breath in your creation, our Universe. My life really has been easy and all the disappointments have passed away due to your care for me. May Mary who from the time of your presentation in the Temple knew that a sword was to pierce her own heart and even in the complete wonder of heaven is aware of our needs on earth continue to lead the Saints in prayers for their mislead brothers and sisters on earth and for the souls awaiting mercy in Purgatory.