Powerful Words from St. Paul

For centuries, the words of St. Paul have been heeded by Christians who desire to reform their own lives and defend their faith against nay-sayers. Time and time again, the first and greatest apologist of the one true Church exhorted his readers to change their ways, to put aside the sinful ways of the world, and rejoice in the goodness found in Jesus Christ. The selection from St. Paul's letter to the Ephesians used for today's Mass readings does exactly the same. In fact, the selected passage seems to be a very good synthesis of all that this first-century apostle taught after his conversion.

Of the many poignant things mentioned in today's passage, three sentences stood out to me.

"Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ." This sentence helped to remind me that kindness, compassion, and forgiveness are the essential elements of fruitful relationships. If I cannot exercise these qualities, my relationships (especially my marriage) will be of no benefit to me or to the other parties.

"Be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved us and handed himself over for us as a sacrificial offering...." True love, as Christ exhibited, is dying to one's self for the sake of others. As a (not-so-perfect) follower of Christ, I must always remember to sacrifice the things I desire for the betterment of others, especially my family.

"Live as children of the light." The final sentence of the passage linked above requires me to accept my place in the Divine relationship. I am the child who is not able to provide for all that I need. Indeed, only God can provide everything I require; no one else can provide His sustaining light.

Pray that we might follow St. Paul's exhortations and receive our "inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and of god." St. Paul, pray for us.

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