I used to read Bishop Kenneth Povish (†) in our local *Catholic newspaper, and if I am remembering correctly, he would often divide his column into sections, covering various, unrelated topics. Since there is so much I'd like to cover today, I'm going to make an attempt to imitate his model.
Christian Behavior
As Christians, since we are human, we, too, can struggle with liking people who are not likeable, but Jesus was very clear when he said:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.'"
Trump's press secretary, in defending him for proudly saying, "I hate my opponent and I don't want the best for them. I'm sorry," said he was being "authentically himself."
How sad that his default is to be authentically unchristian. We should not be celebrating what he said. Do not defend the indefensible by praising his frankness, as if it excuses such blatant disregard for the words of Jesus.
Free Speech
I have always been proud that a hallmark of being American is being able to speak your mind. It is not a freedom people in other countries are always guaranteed. To take this away from us by censoring us is a great loss, and a tremendous danger. It lifts my spirit to see so many people finally standing up against the censorship we are currently experiencing. Restricting speech to only what a leader wants to hear is a characteristic of dictators and one we must be very careful not to support.
A Word of Hope
Sitting in Mass the other day, it occurred to me how beautiful it is that even though so many of us are frustrated by the darkness beginning to envelope our nation on so many fronts, we still find it within ourselves to come and worship God. We still hope in our Creator and his ability to overcome evil. We still count on his love and strive to love others as we ought. People of faith cannot give up. They must bring their faith to a world in pain, knowing that God continues to be with us in the struggle.
The Father never left Jesus in his darkest hours, but gave him the courage and strength to endure what he did, so that his light would penetrate the darkness and bring hope to the world.
Forgiveness
Do not be hard on yourself if you are struggling with forgiveness. It is a process. Speaking the words, "I forgive" can be a starting point for many, but if it is taking you some time to reach the ability to forgive, that's okay.
When our ability to forgive is lacking, we can ask God for help. He will step in and bring forgiveness and peace, where we may be struggling. He can do what we might not yet be able to.
I hope your day is filled with the peace of Christ.
Janet Cassidy
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at: jmctm2@gmail.com
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*The Catholic Times/The Catholic Weekly (I had a column in The Catholic Times)
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