St. Stephen Church at 6044 SW 19th Street, Miramar, FL 33023 US - Are You Allowing the Holy Spirit In?
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Are You Allowing the Holy Spirit In? |
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Why does Jesus say we must 'hate' our families and even ourselves in the Gospel Lesson this Sunday? The expression 'to hate' often meant to 'prefer less'. Jesus used strong language to make clear that nothing should take precedence (first place) in our lives over God. Jesus knew that the way of the cross was the Father's way to glory and victory over sin and death. He counted the cost and said 'yes' to his Father's will. We, too, must "count the cost" and be ready to follow Jesus in the way of the cross if we want to share in his glory and victory.
What is the "Way of the Cross" for you and for me? When my will crosses with God's will, then his will must be done. The way of the cross involves sacrifice, the sacrifice of laying down my life each and every day for Jesus' sake. What makes such sacrifice possible and "sweet" for us is the love of God poured out for us in the blood of Jesus Christ.
Paul the Apostle reminds us that "God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit." (Romans 5:5) We can never out give God. He always gives us more than we can expect or imagine. Do you allow the Holy Spirit to fill your heart with the love of God?
Rev. Alejandro RoQue, omi
