Forgiven +

Forgiveness is a wonderful, mysterious gift from our God. It was so important to Him, to have a relationship with us, that He sent His only Son to save us from our own sin. Jesus was not only fully divine but He was also fully human. So, the suffering He endured was excruciating and His death horrifying. But, He chose yes, to do this for us – for our salvation. FORGIVENESS.

Even though it is a free gift from God, we have to sincerely want this gift, forgiveness. Not a half hearted, “Sorry God, I messed up but You knew I would anyway. I’ll try to do better if I can.” Words alone are not enough to be forgiven. One must have a sincere and contrite heart in order for the words to mean anything and for us to receive the gift of forgiveness. To quote Yoda from Star Wars, “Do or do not. There is no try”. Does this mean we will not commit this sin again? Maybe and maybe not. The important thing is the desire not to commit the sin and not to just try!

But being Catholic is great. It’s like experiencing Christmas morning every time we go to confession with our parish priest. We receive the gift of forgiveness. As long as we have a sorrowful and contrite heart, all is forgiven by our Father in Heaven through Jesus Christ who is represented by the priest in sacrament of reconciliation.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation not only brings us forgiveness but it covers us, like a warm blanket, with powerful grace from our God. By receiving grace in the sacraments we strengthen our faith, our bond with God. It is one of the spiritual exercises we must do in order to prepare us for the greatest challenge of all, life beyond this material world.

So - my brothers and sisters, and my spiritual children build those spiritual muscles. Receive the sacraments often, including confession, and strengthen your relationship with God. Remember, pray, pray, pray…
LET GO, LET GOD

Be God’s forever+

Deacon Rob Starr