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A good Christian is mysterious, for he is amphibious, dwelling in two worlds simultaneously. His optimal state is found in leading a dual life, being both human and divine. Although I cannot claim to fully embody this lifestyle, my time in the seminary has provided a glimpse into its essence, not solely through my actions but through the presence of genuine Christians around me.
The pursuit of God is an incessant quest in our lives, a sentiment reiterated numerous times. St. Augustine beautifully encapsulates this: ‘Our hearts are made for you, Lord, and they will never find their resting place until they find it in you.’ Within us lies a void uniquely shaped for God, compelling us to search for ways to fill it. While some genuinely seek God, others attempt to substitute His place with fleeting substitutes. Here, I share St. Thomas Aquinas’ four facets often used to fill this divine void, and Christ’s perspective on each.
1. Power
Power is esteemed by the world as a tool to establish authority and gain respect. The more power one wields, the greater their influence and following. It offers control and a semblance of godliness. Yet, Christ’s view suggests that while power isn’t inherently wrong, it should not be pursued recklessly or arrogantly. Romans 13:1 reveals that power is an ordained gift from God. It empowers us to serve and lead, emphasizing responsibility over dominance.
2. Pleasure
The world embraces pleasure as a means to gratify desires, evading discomfort and pain. It centers around personal contentment and immediate happiness, attempting to bridge the gap left by God. Christ acknowledges the desire for satisfaction but promotes a different form – the Beatitudes, as mentioned in Matthew 5. Pleasure, as seen in Christ’s crucifixion, may not always align with immediate gratification, but can lead to profound fulfillment in fulfilling divine purposes.
3. Wealth
The world equates wealth with happiness and success. The relentless pursuit of riches consumes many, often at the expense of morality. While money isn’t vilified by Christ, its role should be within moral limits, as outlined in CCC 2544. Material wealth should not overshadow spiritual richness. Christ’s poverty on the cross exemplified that true wealth transcends material possessions.
4. Honour
The world advocates self-glorification and reputation-building, often disregarding humility and peace. Christ advocates self-denial, humility, and service. His message challenges the world’s pursuit of acclaim, urging us to embrace selflessness. Even on the cross, stripped of worldly honor, Christ’s true divinity shone through.
To embody this dual life, we must first embrace the crucified Christ. Emptiness of worldly honor, pleasure, power, and wealth – akin to Christ’s emptying on the cross – enables the inflow of divine love. Our capacity to receive from Christ is proportionate to our willingness to empty ourselves. How much will you release today to make space for Christ’s transformative love?”
Christian families are missionary families, in their everyday life, in their doing everyday things, as they bring to everything the salt and the leaven of faith!
Pope Francis 