Preparation for Total Consecration

WEEK 2:
SELF-KNOWLEDGE

All of us have strengths and weaknesses on the emotional, psychological and physical levels. They interact. The more we have some understanding of what is happening, the better for ourselves and those among whom we live. It is helpful to consider this in the light of the ideal of Jesus.

Fourth Day: Mt. 21: 28-31

DEEDS LOUDER THAN WORDS

Parable.What do you think? A man had two sons: and he went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work in the vineyard today.' And he answered, 'I will not'; but afterwards he repented and went. And he went to the second and said the same: and he answered, 'I will go, sir', but he did not go. Which of the two did the will of the father?' They said, 'The first'. Jesus said to them, 'Truly, I to you, the tax-collectors and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.'

Reflection.For many people words come easier than deeds. It is relatively easy to promise the moon, but much harder sometimes to keep an appointment. Vows are publicly made in words and ceremony, but tested for meaning in what people do in everyday life. How important to me is keeping my word?

From the days of the prophets in Israel to the preaching of John the Baptist, God appealed to people to change their way of living and turn towards him. In every case, it seems, only a remnant of those who heard were willing to respond in practical living. How many approaches, perhaps, has God made to me? Am I too complacent or self-satisfied to really do anything about it? Am I afraid to be challenged?

If I believe that as regards myself and God, only a marginal change is necessary, that is all that will happen. I may only allow God into the margins of my life. In the parable, Jesus is trying to shock the people, and their leaders especially - tax-collectors and harlots go into the kingdom of God before you - into a realisation of their condition and his presence. Unless I too wake up to what God is inviting me to do, I may never know the exhilaration of the Gospel, experienced by those who come to it knowing how much is their need.

Prayer.Lord Jesus, deeds speak louder than words. Your life, death and resurrection show this so clearly. I have your marvellous words in the Gospel, but all of them take flesh in your person. Help me to give practical expression to my faith by listening to what you say and do.

May your Mother, who advised, 'Do whatever he tells you', encourage me to do your will, and never waste the present moment.

Montfort.'Do not be ashamed of performing an act of virtue, whatever company you may be in, and never leave undone any good act through fear of scorn or even of praise, when you believe God wants it of you' (Maxims, 1:7).