At Catholic mass this weekend, you will hear a short passage from Matthew's Gospel that relates how Jesus began to prepare His Apostles for His death and resurrection. Here's what happened after He laid out the plan.
Tough-guy Peter took Jesus aside and told Him not to worry; that he wasn't going to let anything bad happen to Him. Oh, sure! Jesus admonished Peter by telling him to stop thinking like a human being but begin thinking like God. Yowza! It's a difficult thing for a man to do. Besides that, Peter didn't yet get the idea that the whole reason Jesus walked on Earth, was to die for our sins. It is a difficult concept.
And, why would He do that? The answer is love. God made the world as a place for people to live. He loved the place and the people He created. All the people have to do is love Him in return. That doesn't sound too difficult; does it?"
Just think - God, who doesn't need anything, who can do anything He wants, decided to send His only son to Earth to live as and with these lower creatures. If that ain't enough, He allowed His son to be abused and murdered by them. Jesus' came to teach all people that they must love God and all other people. This love must be so great that men would be willing give up their life for their God. Jesus gave His life for us. No one has greater love than this . . .
The Gospel passage ends with Jesus explaining that there will be a final judgement and all will be repaid in accordance with their conduct on Earth. Gulp! Be good Christian people.
God bless you. Have a great weekend.
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1 comment:
Very simple, very clear, very helpful. How hard is that? Impossible for man, that's why we need God. Thanks, Pat
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