Preparation for Total Consecration

WEEK 1:
THE SPIRIT OF THE WORLD

The spirit of the world means in practice to live as if God does not exist. It is a self-centred existence, always with an eye to 'What's in it for me?' Yet, either 'God is of supreme importance or he is of no importance'.

Sixth Day: Mt. 12: 29, 30

THE STRONG CHRIST

Parable.How can one enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods unless he first bind the strong man? Then indeed he may plunder his house. He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters.

Reflection.The Gospel is clear that if I am to stay faithful to Christ, I shall have a fight on my hands. Forces within and around me would wish to drag me from him. Battered and bruised I may be, half-defeated at times, but to gather with Jesus is better than scattering with anyone else.

The spirit of the world will want to bind Jesus, as his way of life is such a threat to it. He lived for his Father's will and for us, not for himself, and he will be put to one side as a harmless, idyllic teacher where he is not totally ignored. His Gospel presence threatens self-centred living.

If media opinion attempts to bind Jesus, and I live in that world, my faith in my present risen Lord may be plundered. What then am I left with? Without the strength of my risen Lord, who rose from the grave to be with me now, I am at risk from whoever might wish to rob me.

The spirit of evil, I remember, was strong enough to engineer the crucifixion of my Lord. Without his strength, it might rob me easily. Evil is there and is powerful. Time spent in the company of Jesus and with those who are open to his influence, can strengthen my faith in my risen Lord in the face of world-wide evil.

Prayer.Lord Jesus, the spirit of the world, which lives without you, may attempt to bind you, put you aside, or pretend that you are irrelevant. When your presence is felt, it is fought tooth and nail. World-wide selfishness and evil can so depress. I pray for the courage to choose to stay with you and reflect your strength through my weakness.

May your Mother, who from your conception experienced the cost of being one with you, strengthen me, and guide me to you.

Montfort.'You are of little account. They are influential ... They have the backing of all who matter. You are weak ... But let me repeat: Have no fear, at least, no deliberate fear. Listen to Jesus Christ who tells you, It is I, do not be afraid' (LCM 2).