God be Merciful to Me, a Sinner

Of the many Fr. Henry Nouwen books I have read, I probably appreciate his The Genesee Diary: Report from a Trappist Monastery,  the most.  For the late Fr. Nouwen this was a time of transition and rediscovery of his own place on a journey of faith.  His experience of the Monks puts aside any notion that these men are pious saintly creatures.  Father Nouwen helps us see them in all of their human weakness and frailties.  He also helps us to understand that it is the participation in the Eucharist, prayer, forgiveness, support, and community, which keeps them centered on a life that can be difficult and a challenge, to say the least.  For Father Nouwen, who was so very much aware of his own human nature, these men were very conscious of their humanity.

The Publican who is presented in today's Gospel has an acute awareness of his sin and sinfulness, and at the same time trusts in God's love and mercy enough in order to  approach God in his holy place, albeit at a distance, and cry out for God's mercy and love.  Knowing that one is broken, and understanding the neediness that is ours, allows us to begin the journey towards healing and peace.  We can of course decide to put on a mask, or persona, in which we try to lead people to believe we have I all together.  Our use of food, alcohol, work, or even our relationships, can manipulate our lives into thinking we are "okay."

When we consider our sinfulness it is not enough to examine the basics of lying, cheating, or watching 'dirty' movies.  We need to look at the gaping holes in our lives, the fractures and the brokenness, which displace us from our relationship with God and others.  We find healing and peace by making new decisions and better choices.  We have to remember to include Christ, and our life of faith, into everything we do.

Jesus continues to refer back to his Father in heaven.  This is his mode of operation. We cannot be so mediocre so as to ignore the covenant and commitments we have to live a faith life.  Jesus blesses our human nature.  Reflecting his grace and blessing, trusting in his grace and blessing, we strive to live good and holy lives.