Monday, March 23, 2015

Fifth Monday of Lent: Patient Willingness

“Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on do not sin any more.” - JN 8:1-11

In today’s gospel, we are taken into the heart of Christ, one that is compassionate, forgiving, and merciful. Jesus forgave the adulteress without word on her part and asked the searching question, “Who is the one without sin? Let them cast the first stone.” Upon self-examination, each accuser walked away. The woman remained with Him. Jesus offered His forgiveness and encouraged her to break off from her sin. God’s forgiveness does not negate responsibility but requires conversion. He invites all of us to ponder, “From now on, will you choose to walk in the light with me?”

Not only is God aware of our darkness, but He also longs to journey in the shadows of our heart and illuminate light. He recognizes a truer story beneath the one we generally offer to the world, the stuff we cannot see, the evasions and delusions, and the places where we are simply stuck. No matter what we have done or how long we have strayed, God welcomes us back with open, loving arms. He does not exploit our guilt, but heals it. And because we are human, beautifully imperfect and complex, we will return to Him time and time again. In doing so, we allow for a radical change to take place, unbecoming who we are and becoming our truest selves. During these moments, I find myself enveloped in His love and asking, “Why is that You believe in me? What do You see in me that makes me feel loved and precious?”

My challenge often transpires in the healing process when I am simultaneously happy, sad, grateful, angry, accepting, and every possible emotion, all smashed together and amplified. Perhaps, I hope the word ‘healing’ to be more pure and simple. With God’s encouragement and love, I realize that I am not to thrive in spite of my losses, mistakes, and sorrows, but because of them. All He asks is for my patient willingness and trust to be transformed along the way.

Lord, help me to walk towards Your light...

Reflected by Tam Lontok

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