Readings: Romans 7:18-25, Ps. 119:66,68,76-77,93-94, Luke 12:54-59
“Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24)
By talking about the flesh as weak, useless, and captive, St. Paul drives home the point that we cannot depend on our strength as far as avoiding sin is concerned. To win the war against sin, we must keep running to Jesus again and again. Left to ourselves, we are such wretched creatures, but thanks to Jesus Christ, by the power of His Grace, we can live above sin. Jesus acknowledged this fact by saying: “Cut off from me, you can do nothing.” (John 15:5).
In his book, Introduction to Devout Life, St. Francis De Sales explains: “As soon as you find yourself in any temptations, do as little children do when they see a wolf or a bear in the country; for straightway, they run to the arms of their father or of their mother, or at all events they call them to their help and assistance. Have recourse in like manner to God, imploring His mercy and His assistance.” In other words, make every temptation an occasion for prayer. Do not trust in your flesh.
During our catechism classes, we were taught to make the sign of the Cross and say a short prayer whenever we saw or heard something sinful. Prayer, no matter how brief, imparts grace, and grace is to the soul what air is to the body.
In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says, “As you go with your accuser before the magistrate, make an effort to settle with him on the way, lest he drag you to the judge, and the judge hand you over to the officer and the officer put you in prison.” (Luke 12:57-58). The key phrase here is: “Make an effort.”
As much as asking for God’s grace in fighting temptations is essential, we must never forget that grace builds on nature. God wants you to make an effort; that is, try to avoid danger and be wise. Your accuser is the devil; to conquer him, you must be “wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16).
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, give us the wisdom and grace to avoid sin in moments of temptation. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Friday of week 29 in Ordinary Time. Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Romans 7:18-25, Ps. 119:66,68,76-77,93-94, Luke 12:54-59)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu