This past weekend we celebrated the summer solstice which is the longest day of the year. What this means is that going forward, the days are getting shorter. Ironically, this week the second reading is from St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans (Romans 6:3-4, 8-11). This reading is often times heard at funerals. Really, our number of days here on earth is getting shorter as well.
One of the messages that I glean from this passage is that we as Christians are spiritually united with Jesus in both His death and in His resurrection. I am continually amazed at how impressive a gift that God gave us in the sacrifice of His Son for us. He died so that we may live. I invite you to read in its entirety chapter six from St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans. The chapter reinforces the truth that it is up to us to accept this gift of life. How do we accept this gift?
We accept this gift by living with the Lord. As Catholic Christians, we have the sacraments that give us grace. Grace is real and efficacious. When we receive the Lord in the Eucharist, we are sharing in His death and resurrection. We are doing as he asked us, to eat and drink of His body and blood. The sacrament of reconciliation gives us the opportunity to “wipe our slates clean.” Anointing of the sick gives us healing grace. The sacraments are tools that we can have at our disposal that enable us to live with Him.
In the Word we often hear “be not afraid,” yet fear and anxiety can easily wash over us. The Word tells us to turn the other cheek, to love our enemies, and to live as He asks. When we live a righteous life, not only do we live with Christ, but the rewards are here on the earth and in life after. We are happier and more joyful when we live as He asks.
None of us go through life unscathed. It can be difficult to unite our suffering to Jesus’. No matter how heavy our cross may be. Jesus’ cross was heavier. Please remember that we are united with Jesus in His death and resurrection. There are wonderful things awaiting us that are beyond what we can imagine. Let us live with the Lord.
See you in church and pray for me as I will for you!
Deacon Chris