A priest told me yesterday that the only thing keeping Catholics
from becoming saints is fear. Now, I believe this as fear stops the growth of
trust in Divine Providence and robs persons of joy. He had been on a priests' retreat and this was the theme.
Fear, simply, is not believing in the love of God. If one truly knows that God loves one, there
is no fear in the soul or mind or heart. Purity of heart, mind and soul means
that one has realized that God loves one despite one’s horrible failings and
inadequacies.
One does not have to “prove” love to God, but merely rest in
His Love.
Fear drives out love. One cannot trust anyone or anything
when one lives in fear.
Love does drive out fear, bit by bit, one’s heart is cleared
of sin and sadness.
Sadly, many older people fall into fear as they grow
elderly. The media plays upon the fears of those who no longer can control
their own destinies. Fear keeps them from community and created new suspicions
where none are necessary.
Fear causes people to pull in, not to reach out. to be mistrustful and cynical.
We can trust through Christ Himself, and in Christ Himself.
To fear is to destroy the gifts and fruits of the Spirit.
The flowers of the field grow and flourish under the care of
God. Should we fear that we shall not be cared for and tended like these
little, humble creatures, His flowers?
Meditate on God's Divine Providence today. He has won the war. We only have to sweep up the battles.
to be continued..