The Journey Begins

The decision to grow in holiness/wholeness is an invitation to actively participate in the history of salvation by using our uniqueness to bring others to Christ.

We know we are being called into a deeper relationship with Christ, we may not be able to articulate it but we "know" it. We sense God calling us to Himself for a purpose that has not yet been revealed.

We know this because we have been given a glimpse of how disordered some of our relationships are and the self-knowledge of our part in them.

We know deep in our being this, is the logical next step, but cannot fully understand yet what it means. This is the Holy Spirit drawing us in. Remember to stop and ponder these things; as when any knowledge is given, it is also a calling to go deeper.

Going deeper, coming closer to Christ means more temptations. This is how you know you are on the right path. If you were not, there would be no need for temptations as you are already his.

Cultivating a prayer life is essential, it is also the easiest to gloss over, as it is the hardest one to establish. It means changing our daily habits, making time for Our Lord and Lady. It requires a commitment, a commitment to ourselves; that we will make time to pray and learn the different ways to pray. If you fall asleep, are easily distracted or have thoughts of giving up, then you know you are on the right path. The more repulsed or opposed to the idea of prayer, the more you know Our Lord is calling you into a deeper relationship. Rejoice and deepen your resolve.

The Sacraments are key to moving forward. By virtue of our Baptism, we know satan has no power over us. The Sacrament of Reconciliation helps us discern the voice of God and the voice of the evil one. It also allows us to grow in self-knowledge, identifying those areas that are in most need of healing, love and grace.

Satan uses this Sacrament in particular to stop forward progress in its tracks. The temptations become: why do I need to confess my sins to a Priest? How can he know what I am going through, he isn't even allowed to marry? I can just speak to Jesus from my heart and he will forgive me. And any numerous other distractions!!

Truth is, satan does not want you to get closer to God, he does not want you to learn to discern his voice, grow in self-knowldge or to realize what he already knows it true. God is real and Heaven does exist.

Receiving the Sacrament of Holy Communion is especially powerful as it provides intimate union with Jesus. This union is so intimate and personal as Our Lord fills us with Himself and draws of ever closer as He reveals Eternal truths to us. When temptations come do not be surprised; as satan will fill your mind with doubts about Jesus's own teaching [John 6]. If he can succeed in making us believe that the Eucharist is not Jesus's body and blood then we are an easier target for his ultimate deception. We see this everyday within the church and with our Christian brothers and sisters.

As we continue on our journey, pray for protection, help, guidance, wisdom and knowledge of the truth. Expect temptations. Frequently receive the Sacraments and embrace the life that God is calling forth in you; for your good and His Glory.