Tuesday of the Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time
What does St. Paul mean when he says, “for freedom, Christ set us free?” What is this freedom?
Freedom is a powerful word here in the United States, and we have many expectations that come with the use of the word. There are certain parallels, but it means so much more in the Christian context. Typically, if I say it as a citizen of this country, I mean freedom to be the legal right to do as I wish or the attitude of being able to do as I want to for good or bad. Admittedly, many good things are possible with this kind of freedom. The twist for Christian freedom is that we are free to do good in all circumstances, even above our feelings or desires.
Sin blinds us to the disorder, hatred, and suffering of others. It renders us helpless in the face of selfish desire that leads to manipulation and emptiness. As the bible clearly understands, sin enslaves us; it takes away our freedom. This means sin can manipulate the liberty we enjoy that harm us and those around us.
It is for the freedom from sin and deceit Christ set us free. This life is to be lived for the sake of others, for the sake of God, and for the sake of God’s holy will. We now have the free choice to either live for Christ or live for selfish and destructive enslavement.
Pray for the gift of true freedom in Christ Jesus.
Reflection by Fr. Etienne Huard, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections