Christ’s passion is the remedy for sin (John 1:29). Christ’s passion, however, is at the same time the prime example of how Christians should live in this world. Christ’s passion, in other words, powerfully tells us the “secret” or the key to living a virtuous, successful life. “How so”, one might understandably ask. How does Christ’s Cross reveal to us the way by which we can live a successful life?
St. Thomas Aquinas tells us in his Catechism: “Whoever wishes to live perfectly need do nothing other than despise what Christ despised on the cross, and desire what Christ desired.” What did Christ despise on the cross? WEALTH, WORLDLY HONOR, PLEASURE, BEING PHYSICALLY ATTRACTIVE, PRIVILEGE, ETC. What did Jesus Christ love on cross? DOING THE WILL OF THE HEAVENLY FATHER!
Of course, given our fallen natures, it is not always exactly easy to do the Father’s will. It is not easy to die to oneself so that Christ will live in us. For this reason, then, it is absolutely necessary that we ask God, who is love (1 Jn 4:16), to help us live for Him alone, to grant us the necessary graces to accept and do His holy will in love. Surely, God will never reject our petition if we ask Him in faith and humility.
Most High, glorious God,
enlighten the darkness of my heart.
Give me true faith, certain hope
and perfect charity, sense and
knowledge that I may carry out
Your Holy and true command.
- Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi to discern God’s will
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