Abandon Sin
"God hears us in regard to whatever we ask, according to his will." (John 5:14-21)
"God hears us in regard to whatever we ask, according to his will." (John 5:14-21)
In our 1st Reading, John gives us all a 2x4 tap on the head, reminding us how to pray, despite our sinful selves.
Deadly sins, for which we must first recognize and then ultimately abandon are: pride, envy, gluttony, lust, anger, greed, and sloth. How easy for any one these behaviors or feelings to rear its ugly head into our day-to-day routine without us being alert and mindful of their presence.
How often are we a “glutton for punishment” or exhibit too much pride or greed of what we “have”, or display/hold anger for “someone who did us wrong”. Do we stop these before they begin? Are we on guard, every day, of them creeping in?
By the grace of God, He allows us to go before him, humbly, asking for his forgiveness … and he lovingly, with open arms, does! As the responsorial psalm proclaims: The Lord takes delight in his people.
Having a prayerful life, where we constantly/consistently ask God to be present, to guide us, to assist us, to help us, is a gift given to us, for he is ever present and protects us.
Which one, if any, of the deadly sins come and linger before you?
Father in Heaven, please help us identify what sin still has a grip on us, lead us to reconciliation with you, so that we can ultimately fulfill your will. Amen.
Sr. Sherly Vazhappilly was born and raised in India by her parents and three brothers. She entered the Franciscan Sisters of St. Elizabeth and received her Perpetual Vows in 1998. After receiving a bachelor’s degree in English and master’s degree in educational leadership, shetaught in Montessori Early Childhood, Elementary, middle school, and served as an assistant principal. She currently works as the Vicar for Religious and Associate Director of Vocations at the Diocese of St. Petersburg. She loves reading the Bible and watching baseball (Go Rays!). She loves the motto of St. Francis “Preach the Gospel at all times; Use words when necessary.”
