Real Love

On the way home from work tonight, all I could think about was God’s goodness in my life, and how He blesses me so incredibly much – more than I could ever ask for – even in my unworthiness. That’s real love, my dear friends.

“Sinfulness” has been on my mind all week (along with the readings for the 2nd Sunday of Advent). Now that we’ve entered into the Advent season, we are asked to reflect on our sinfulness, to repent, and to prepare our hearts for the coming of our Messiah. Tonight, the Lord used Fr. Jack Peterson as a perfect instrument, as he spoke to the students about forgiveness/the Sacrament of Reconciliation. One thing that resonated in my heart was this: “When sin increases, grace is abounded all the more” (Romans 5:20). My goodness!  See how much He loves us despite our sinfulness, and how willingly He so desires to forgive us?

Just a moment ago I finished Night Prayer. Tears of joy ran down my cheeks as I read Psalm 16:

Preserve me, God, I take refuge in you.
I say to the Lord: “You are my God.
My happiness lies in you alone.”

He has put into my heart a marvelous love
for the faithful ones who dwell in his land.
Those who choose other gods increase their sorrows.
Never will I offer their offerings of blood.
Never will I take their name upon my lips.

O Lord, it is you who are my portion and cup;
it is you yourself who are my prize.
The lot marked out for me is my delight:
welcome indeed the heritage that falls to me!

I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel,
who even at night directs my heart.
I keep the Lord ever in my sight:
since he is at my right hand, I shall stand firm.

And so my heart rejoices, my soul is glad;
even my body shall rest in safety.
For you will not leave my soul among the dead,
nor let your beloved know decay.

You will show me the path of life,
the fullness of joy in your presence,
at your right hand happiness for ever.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is so beautiful. When we humble ourselves before our Lord, trust in His mercy, are honest about our sins, and have the desire/decide to be better, then we will experience the fullness of joy…without fail. Every time a student came back downstairs after going to Confession, the joy that was emanated made my heart rejoice, and my soul glad. That’s how joyful they were. That’s how joyful we all can be.

To my readers, whoever you are, know that I’m praying for you and your heart. May your Advent season be filled with joyful hope for the coming of our Messiah, and may you be open to this beautiful grace-filled Sacrament. His love is so real.

Peace,
Fatima