 |
| Pope St Callistus Patron Saint of Catholic Cemeteries |
If you are guided by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
...the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
patience, kindness, generosity,
faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
Against such there is no law.
Saint Paul seemed to delight in making lists; and especially when he listed vices and virtues he could get carried away. But I don't suppose he intended his lists of vices or virtues to be comprehensive; they are merely indicative of the many horrors we should avoid, and the innumerable blessings that increase our faith and expand our freedom.
His lists of the dreadful characteristics of non-believers should keep them awake at night. Sadly, many misguided, well-intentioned souls try to live a good life; and try to present an image of goodness to their family, friends, neighbors, and God. But people who try to be good without the grace of God are only noisy gongs and a clanging cymbals. All the effort in the world cannot substitute for the God who awaits our willingness.
A friend of mine recently shared how her husband has become willing to discuss formerly taboo subjects since she began to pray daily. She never expected it, and feared even to ask for it. But as she prayed she found herself less uneasy and more open to whatever he might do, say, think, or wonder about. They're more comfortable with her! And now she hears him asking about her faith! The Spirit has apparently entered their conversation. Who would have thought it could happen?
"Against such there is no law!" Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Bishop Robert Barron are serving with other American religious leaders on the Religious Liberty Commission. They have reminded their colleagues that the federal constitution guarantees churches freedom from government interference, but it says nothing about religious organizations speaking to, or making demands of, government. There should be no laws against prayer in public or the classroom. If some feel uncomfortable with religious expression they are free to change their attitudes and become more hospitable (or inclusive) toward others. Nothing human is cast in stone, and least of all our attitudes!
Faithful people can lead the nation in the ways of "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, [and] self-control. Against such there is no law."
