“Our once great western Christian civilization is dying. If this matters to followers of Jesus Christ, then we must set aside our denominational differences and work together to strengthen the things that remain and reclaim what has been lost. Evangelicals and Catholics must stand together to re-establish that former Christian culture and moral consensus. We have the numbers and the organization but the question is this: Do we have the will to win this present spiritual battle for Jesus Christ against secularism? Will we prayerfully and cooperatively work toward a new Christian spiritual revival ― or will we choose to hunker down in our churches and denominationalisms and watch everything sink into the spiritual and moral abyss of a New Dark Age?” - Mark Davis Pickup

Monday, December 12, 2016

SUFFERING AND DIVINE LOVE

Forty-three years with aggressive multiple sclerosis (MS) has taught me that the presence of joy is directly proportionate to the presence of Christ I have allowed in my life. I can not overstate this fact. Saint Teresa of Avila put it this way: 

"Christ does not force our will. He takes only what we give him. But he does not give himself entirely until he sees that we yield ourselves entirely to him." 

It is in this truth that I have found meaning and purpose to my suffering. With Christ, it is possible for tears of sorrow and tears of joy to flow simultaneously.  The Why of suffering is answered in and by Divine love.

It is not found by imposed death. Euthanasia and suicide (assisted or otherwise) is a rejection of the Author of life: Christ. 

Mark





1 comment:

Rey said...

I am amazed at your trust in God.

I am ashamed at my lack of trust in Him.