19th Sunday - Fr. Leo
Michael Casey’s book, “Living in the Truth,” talks about why people don’t like religion. One of the reasons he sites, is the Me-First culture which is an expression of hedonism. Religion sets boundaries and some people want to live as if there were no boundaries. Our current up-tick in crime is one expression of hedonism. Crime is an expression of me-first living. But, boundaries are good. They are needed and necessary. It’s not ok to car jack someone. It’s not okay to shout racism when it is only a cover for crime.
Marriage is one long established boundary in our culture. It requires self-sacrifice and dedication to one’s spouse. Love grows in this boundary and children can grow up in stable environments with loving parents. There is also responsibility for the gift of conception within marriage. This is something that we don’t see among singles that are looking for immediate pleasure, or looking to have children so they can live off assistance paid per child. Our system enables this irresponsibility. It also factors into the “Abortion,” mentality that covers for lack of self-discipline. This is not ok. It is the taking of human life.
Discipline is necessary in all areas of life. The gymnast knows this. Those fighting addiction know this. Those living meaningful lives know this. The gospel affirms this. Jesus calls us to be awake and await the Masters return. To serve the master requires disciple and self-sacrifice. And the sacrifice leads to greater happiness in God. It leads to the fullness of life, the opposite of the just-me avenue which only leads to isolation, sin and death.
We make choices all day long. While we make them this week let us be mindful of what we choose, that it may lead us to live and love as Christ lived and loved.