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.

Second Day: Mt. 7: 13,14

DON'T FOLLOW THE CROWD

Parable.Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is easy, that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.

Reflection.How do I face up to choice? Do I go instinctively for the nearest gap in the hedge? Do I refuse anything that speaks of sacrifice? How far does 'I want it now' reflect me? Does my understanding of my faith guide my choices? Is there ever tension between what I would like to do or say and what I believe that my faith requires? How well do I understand faith?

The mature person has been described as one whose centre of gravity is always where he or she actually is. This means that, as a man or woman, boy or girl, married, single, or separated, I should try always to ask myself, what does the present moment ask of me?

It is difficult to keep that perspective. If I am trying to live a Christian life, I must be prepared at times to choose the hard road to the narrow gate.

If 'those who find it are few', and if I hope to be among them, clearly I cannot follow the crowd. Our Lord, I recall, was so at odds with his contemporary pattern of life that what was considered his scandalous behaviour in following his Father's will led to his crucifixion. I have been warned.

Prayer.Lord Jesus, the adult honesty of the Gospel can frighten me at times. Choices must be made. The freedom to go and do as I like is bogus if it means that I am lost on the wrong road. Only through belief and love of you will I ever have the courage and insight to choose the way you would lead me.

May your reflective Mother, who kept so much of everyday experience in her heart, guide me to you.

Montfort.'How is it, then, great God, that although it is so glorious, so satisfying and so profitable to serve you, hardly anyone will support your cause?' (PM 28).