“So, then, I discover the principle that when I want to do right, evil is at hand. For I take delight in the law of the God, in my inner self, but I see in my members another principle at war with the law of my mind, taking me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members.” St. Paul to the Romans (7:21-23).
It is said by far the greatest virtue is humility. Possibly the greatest and most difficult to understand and live. For even in times when we desire to walk this path of selflessness, the world seems to pull us back to sin that seeks to destroy it, pride. In pride we try to grasp at divinity for oneself. It began in creation, with Adam and Eve, and continues through all generations. Pride, is sin within us. As a school educator, the rules and ways are constantly, ever changing and as avid learners, at times we feel pressured to adapt beliefs, that contradict God’s ways. Most recently someone brought to my attention, the removal of certain innocent children books, from shelves, as they send messages that may be harmful to a child. I have always tried to be steadfast in supporting all media, books and others that send a positive message of love and growth of heart, mind and spirit. I can’t help but wonder on who’s authority, the removal or implementation of ways, truly lies. People’s agendas, ideas, theories, understandings being forced on people, and man’s ways rule the day. I ask myself, why do we choose man’s thoughts instead of God’s wisdom? Have we lost the meaning of who we are?
Humility, is to embrace God and allow him to be in control of our life. In our life choices do we bring them to God for answers? One of the most amazing revelations, I witness in my life and others, time and time again, is when one puts God at the center of life, it changes everything in their life. I am comfortable to stand on the outside always reaching for His love. What peace it brings to a life when we step back and place our trust in God, not man.
We are all called to be holy. A priest once asked our community of believers to say the word, “Saint” before our name. As I did, it was if, life opened itself and I could envision all amazing sights in my path. “Walk in my light. Be of good courage.”, God beckons us on. I wonder, is fear or feeling of being unloved, a prevailing attribute, that prevents one from journeying with Jesus? What choice would we make differently, if we felt unconditionally loved by God?
Our past and present sins do not define us, God has redeemed us. Saint Ignatius reminds us to, “See God in all things”. See ourselves made in “God’s image”. May you become sensitive and aware to God in the backdrop of all life.
Peace,
Claudia
OurNourishedSoul