Lead Us Not Into Temptation
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I recall a trip I made a few years ago with two friends to the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, Alabama. It’s a place I hadn't even known existed! This shrine, with its breathtaking paintings, statues, and displays, is a testament to the profound impact of the crucifixion on our faith.
One display, in particular, brought tears to my eyes - a large crucifix reminiscent of the crucifixion in the movie "The Passion of the Christ." However, watching "The Passion" could not prepare me for what I would see. My gaze froze on this large cross that brought the crucifixion to life. Jesus' flesh was covered with bloody welts from the whip. The nails in his hands and feet and the crown of thorns that pierced his head provided another reminder of the pain He endured.
I kneeled before this magnificent cross and tried to pray but couldn't. My eyes remained focused on His wounds. I suddenly equated each bloodied welt to sins I had committed. They represented the many times I failed Him by words and actions. I contemplated my sinfulness and how it dishonored Him. I recalled when self-will won against God's will, resulting in disastrous consequences.
The lifelike display had a profound effect that I will carry forever. It was a wake-up call, a transformative moment that shook me out of my complacency in my faith life. I had been taking His sacrifice for granted, but no more. Complacency brings sin, and I now visualize another welt forming on our Savior's flesh. That vision makes me pause to discern my words and actions, inspiring me to strive for a life that reflects His love and grace.
Patti J. Mitchell (formerly Smith) is a devoted Catholic and pro-life advocate. She shares her journey from a life of sinful excess to redemption across the country, including pro-life conferences, to members of Congress, at the March for Life in Washington, D.C., and the Walks for Life in San Diego and San Francisco. She has been a guest on several radio shows, including Immaculate Heart Radio and Radio Maria. She also appears in two documentaries, "The Sidewalk Chronicles" and "Hush."
Patti writes Christian devotionals. One of them, "Redeemed – Rosary Meditations for Post-Abortive Women," is used at healing retreats and written in a way to be used by all denominations. Her most recent release is "And God Still Loves Me – A Story of Hope and Healing." She has also had articles published in the National Catholic Register, Life News, and the Southern Cross.
She is a retired background investigator, married and lives in Puyallup, Washington.
