To be sure this is a radical perspective of Sin and Evil. Jesus reiterates the importance of following the Law and the precepts of the Covenant, but wants us to go even farther. In today's Gospel Jesus teaches us that it is not enough to, not kill, or not to commit adultery. But the underlying anger, lust, disrespect, and lack of forgiveness can all lead men and women into sin, and away from life with God.
One of my favorites books was Last Catholic in America, written by playwright John Power. In it he relates a story about when he was around eight years old, and was a novice at going to Confession. He had categorized his sins under two areas: lying, and disobeying his parents. One Saturday he had realized that he had transposed the number of 'sins' during confession, and he had basically lied in the confessional. He had worried all week that he might die and be condemned to Hell for this transgression. The following Saturday he was the first in the Confession line to correct this error.
It is a funny story. But in reality Sin and Evil are matters of the heart which have their source in the manner we orientate our lives. Sirach helps us understand that we have choices throughout our lives, and our challenge is to make the best choice. It really is about creating a lifestyle that is centered on values and virtues which espouse holiness and human dignity.
In the Psalter on Fridays, we pray Psalm 51. The text recognizes the reality of Sin and sinfulness, and asks God to make us aware of our faults, and his grace which leads us out of Sin. We rely of the Holy Spirit to teach us the best course our lives need to take. Throughout our days we make value judgements and decisions based on a life that has much to do with God's love and mercy. I believe it is Aaron who proclaims before the assembly that there is the choice to say yes or no to God, and for him and his people he will choose God.
Grace and truth cannot be reduced to a moral check-list. It is all about conversion and discipleship. It is the "What do I do after I have said, "Amen."
I like this a lot. It's so easy to remain in that Church of our childhood, with a list of do and donts. If salvation were that easy, we'd all be saved. But its how we integrate that mentality into our self completely, so that moves to a way of life than merely a code. Thanks for the insight, Father. I had a priest tell me he was becoming a saint. I asked him how and he said by daily mass and the liturgy of the hours. Yes, those are essential, but without conversion they won't bring you all the way.
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