All great saints seem to have so many sins, not because they're great sinners, but because they're great lovers. We all commit many sins, but some are aware of it, while others are not. Love makes a person sin-sensitive. The more we love God, the less sins we commit, but the more we are aware of sins. "I tell you, that is why her many sins are forgiven – because of her great love" (Lk 7:47).
As long as Christianity is perceived to be a rule book, a moral code, or a theology, we are not aware of many sins. However, when it is a personal relationship with a living Savior, then every moment or circumstance is an opportunity for love or a sinful rejection of love. For example, Nathan reminded David that the Lord anointed, rescued, and blessed him. Then he brought up David's sin. Conscious of God's love, David confessed: "I have sinned against the Lord" (2 Sm 12:13).
Think about how much Jesus loves you. He really died and suffered for you. Count your blessings. As love wells up in you, you suddenly notice that you haven't thought of God for three hours, didn't say anything about Him at lunch, let fear stifle the Spirit at work. You have sinned; you have been insensitive to His love and constant presence. Ask Jesus to pour out His love in your heart (see Rm 5:5). Then repent.
| PRAYER: | Father, may Your love sensitize me. |
| PROMISE: | "I have been crucified with Christ, and the life I live now is not my own; Christ is living in me. I still live my human life, but it is a life of faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me." –Gal 2:19-20 |
| PRAISE: | Praise You, risen Jesus! You live in us, and we live in You (Jn 6:56; 17:23). Glory be to You forever! |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College