There is a Russian saying, “For every sin of another which we conceal, three of our own are forgiven.”

Isn’t that beautiful?

I apparently suffer some sort of spiritual dyslexia, for my saying often goes, “For every sin of another which I reveal, three of my own will not look as bad.”

There is an alarming amount that is broken and critical inside each of us, me the worst. We all want to be loved, rather than really love.  This stubborn condition in our hearts is what warrants our careful attention, saints, not the sins we readily see in others.

Questioning our own motives, and remembering our own faults should always be the first stop on our train of reckoning.

None is exempt from every human’s spiritual train-wreck; despite plenty of self-help and self-love culture to the contrary.  We are all willfully on the wrong damned tracks; unable to help ourselves get to the right destination where we will be fixed, whole, and new.

God help us.

“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance:  Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners – of whom I am the worst.  But for that very reason, I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his limitless patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.” (Paul, in his first letter to Timothy)

Isn’t this amazing?

It is so compelling, that the God-of-all-things would take on the body and cares of a man.  This shocking coming down to us, being with us, and dying for us is a stunning surprise.  All this love and sacrifice in order to crush death in its many ugly forms, and to make all things new, including the most selfish and forgetful of us all.

It is in God’s nature to show mercy and display limitless patience.  When we follow Christ, he gives us himself and his nature, infuses us with his spirit and purpose.  He gives it freely, we only need to ask.

Doesn’t this change everything?

There is a gospel saying, “God has saved us and called us to a holy life – not because of anything we have done, but because of his own purposes and grace.” (Paul, in his 2nd letter to Timothy)

Great joy to you today, as you look first inside your heart, and then to the one who saves you and breathes new life in you even now.  May the love and breath of God quicken your body and soul.

Now go show mercy and limitless patience to those in your road today.

Kim

 “Oh God, give me grace ever to alleviate the crosses of those around me, never to add to them” (Dorothy Day)