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1 John 2:3-11
Beloved: The way we may be sure that we know Jesus is to keep his commandments. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps his word, the love of God is truly perfected in him. This the way we may know that we are in union with him: whoever claims to abide in him ought to walk just as he walked.
Today's reading from the First Letter of John makes me think of New Year's Day resolutions. We say to family and friends: I'll lose weight... I'll stop smoking... I'll save more money... I'll spend more time with the kids... I'll go to mass every Sunday and even go to confession once a month... I'll say my prayers every single day...
Let's be honest now. A lot of us talk the talk but don't necessarily walk the walk. We have big plans for a total physical and spiritual makeover when the new year rolls around. However, by the end of January some folks skip the gym and then light up a cigarette after a stressful day at work!
It's challenging to keep our resolutions, but we shouldn't give up. Yes, we will slip, trip and fall on our sinful bottoms. We will feel like failures when what we promised isn't 100% accomplished. Heck, at least we took a chance! What's bad is when we say we will do something to change our lives for the better but then simply do nothing.
When it comes to our spiritual life, talk without the walk isn't a good thing. It's a sure sign of hypocrisy! The Lord isn't too happy when we say that we know him and love him when we blaspheme him. Our Mother Mary will surely frown if we treat her precious son with disrespect, mocking his name is disbelief. Keeping the Commandments is serious business! Remember we all want to make it to the gates of Heaven someday. Hell isn't a very attractive alternative.
How can we "Walk the Talk?" First and foremost, practice our faith consistently and devoutly. If we say we are Christian, treat others with compassion and kindness. Love our enemies. Forgive one another. Stay away from mortal sin. When we do sin, make a humble and contrite confession. Regularly consume the Eucharist. Pray and meditate! Do whatever it takes to center our lives around Christ.
-J.
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