Going Forward
“As a result of this, many of his disciples returned to their former way of life and no longer walked with him.” (John 6:66)
“As a result of this, many of his disciples returned to their former way of life and no longer walked with him.” (John 6:66)
Following the forty days of Lent, there is the temptation or tradition to return to the food or activity we decided to fast from during Lent. Yet, wasn’t the point of the fast for the sake of purifying us by casting out whatever it is that has been pulling us away from Christ?
Today’s Gospel describes a similar occurrence in Jesus’ day, many returned to their former ways of life after joining the Way. Maybe it was too challenging for some to walk in a different way of life or become a new creation as Catholic living demands. Just like our new Holy Father, when the Lord calls us, we must go forward, not backwards!
I invite you to consider with me: Am I running towards or away from my new life with Christ?
My Lord and my God, I’m yours, help me live as Yours. Amen.
Father Lucius Amarillas, O.S.B. is a monk and priest of the Order of Saint Benedict at Saint Leo Abbey, Florida, where the Benedictine monks have worked and prayed since 1889. Fr. Lucius serves as University Chaplain and Adjunct Professor of Theology at Saint Leo University. Along with ministering to the Saint Leo community, Father Lucius also ministers throughout the United States, preaching retreats to laity, clergy, and consecrated religious.
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