Is your journey toward Christ a straight shot on a walkway that is clearly marked? The sidewalk leading up to Sangre de Cristo Church in San Luis, Colorado is a straight shot to the front door with bushes all along on both sides. There is no doubt as to where the sidewalk leads the pilgrim. My faith journey is never quite that direct. It seems to be filled with twists and turns plus more than few obstacles along the way. How are crooked ways made straight?
When was the last time you sat down and really pondered the Ten Commandments? Have you spent time in prayer while reviewing your commitment, or lack thereof, to keeping the Ten Commandments? When was the last time you did a thorough examination of conscience utilizing the Commandments and the Beatitudes as a starting point? Please notice that I used the word thorough. This isn't simply a perfunctory exercise. Look up the definition of the word thorough. It means (1) "executed without negligence or omissions; (2) complete, perfect, utter; (3) extremely attentive to accuracy and detail; and (4) painstaking."
We can obviously go overboard with things. The word "scrupulosity" may come to mind in this instance. However, I see fewer times of people being "punctiliously or minutely careful, precise or exact" in the examination of their consciences than I see of people almost completely dismissing the concept of sin. How can we truly know the areas of life that need healing and growth if we never spend time in prayer and discernment seeking God's grace and wisdom?
The summer months are filled with opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. I want to encourage you to visit an outdoor shrine or chapel if you have the ability to do so. Take a brief respite with the Lord. May you find great blessings and peace as we enter the first day of the summer season!
When was the last time you sat down and really pondered the Ten Commandments? Have you spent time in prayer while reviewing your commitment, or lack thereof, to keeping the Ten Commandments? When was the last time you did a thorough examination of conscience utilizing the Commandments and the Beatitudes as a starting point? Please notice that I used the word thorough. This isn't simply a perfunctory exercise. Look up the definition of the word thorough. It means (1) "executed without negligence or omissions; (2) complete, perfect, utter; (3) extremely attentive to accuracy and detail; and (4) painstaking."
We can obviously go overboard with things. The word "scrupulosity" may come to mind in this instance. However, I see fewer times of people being "punctiliously or minutely careful, precise or exact" in the examination of their consciences than I see of people almost completely dismissing the concept of sin. How can we truly know the areas of life that need healing and growth if we never spend time in prayer and discernment seeking God's grace and wisdom?
The summer months are filled with opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. I want to encourage you to visit an outdoor shrine or chapel if you have the ability to do so. Take a brief respite with the Lord. May you find great blessings and peace as we enter the first day of the summer season!
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