Word to the Wise
Thursday, February 14, 2013 -
[Deut 30:15-20 and Luke 9:22-25]If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
Jesus and Deuteronomy today do not offer us a range of options! The cross and the commandments don't make for an easy faith in today's secular culture! Yet, the last line in today's gospel scripture should give anyone pause: "What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself?" Yesterday millions of people went to church who otherwise rarely darken the door of a church to receive a smudge of ashes on the forehead and to be reminded that they are dust and unto dust they must return! Does this reminder last longer than the ashes on the forehead?
Taking up the cross - rending the heart and not the garments - following commandments that are handed down and not voted on - PENANCE! These are all reminders of our fundamental stance before God. We are made in God's image, but we are NOT God. To maintain that image free from tarnish and distortion requires effort at living a life that focuses less on self-satisfaction and more on love of God and neighbor. The irony in this is that focusing on God and neighbor can bring about the greatest self-fulfillment. Lent offers us a new start on this every year. We can "do" Lent in a new way by focusing not on what we "give up" but whom we "give to." That can be a penance that bears fruit! AMEN