Faith and Convictions

Christian Commitment
in Today's World


Romans 14:22-23 (The Message)

 ^22-23Cultivate your own relationship with God, but don't impose it on others. You're fortunate if your behavior and your belief are coherent. But if you're not sure, if you notice that you are acting in ways inconsistent with what you believe—some days trying to impose your opinions on others, other days just trying to please them—then you know that you're out of line. If the way you live isn't consistent with what you believe, then it's wrong. 

For Reflection

When I was a teenager one of the theologians that had the most influence on me was Archbishop Fulton Sheen. He had a very successful radio program and then a television show which ended in 1957. I can remember sitting on the floor in front of our TV enraptured by his wit, his understanding, and his practical theology that was often illustrated at his chalkboard.  He didn't impose his opinon on anyone.  He just talked. 

He once was asked to open a congressional session in Washington D.C. with prayer.  He opened prayer by saying, "There are three things a man must do for himself -- blow his own nose, make his own love, and say his own prayers."  I now understand (many years later) just how unusual it really was for a Catholic priest to say that.  His recognition of the personal and intimate relationship one has with God has influenced me all these years. You can see and hear Bishop Sheen on Youtube.   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaa7I44gkgc&feature=related

Think about your relationship to God.  How congruent is your belief and your behavior?

Pray that your behavior and beliefs are consistent.  Ask God to help you cultivate a stronger and more intimate relation to him.  Ask God to help you be more open to His Holy Spirit.