Denying Self

Happy Sunday from the Basilica Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe. I’m sure that some of you might be wondering what I could be doing in Orlando for so long… But you might be surprised to know that I have NOT been in theme parks 24/7 over the last week. The mornings have been fun, but I normally leave the parks after lunch and head back to our accommodations for the afternoon. I’ve been doing a lot of spiritual reading while I am here, and I just finished a great biography on Saint Monica by F. A. Forbes. As you attend Mass this weekend back home, and I attend Mass here, I just wanted to share one or two simple reflections with you in regards to the gospel this weekend. Everybody loves to quote John 3:16 where Jesus speaks to Nicodemus. What we forget is the full context of what Jesus is trying to say to Nicodemus. In our modern world, we love to just pick and choose what we like from the Sacred Scriptures. But Nicodemus had a lot to lose By following Jesus publicly since he was a member of the Pharisees. We would like to think that it’s just easy to accept Jesus and be done with him and everyone goes to heaven. Sounds nice… But that’s why heresy still exist today! Those heresies sound really nice but never challenge us to grow and to be holy! Nicodemus would remain a secret follower of Jesus until after the resurrection… He was not quite ready to do what the gospel says today: “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself, pick up his cross daily, and follow me.” That is the categorical difference between being someone who accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior, and being a disciple. A disciple wants to be perfect, just as Jesus tells us that we should do. When we have ambition in the world that is geared to the things of the world, it leads us away from Heaven. It is all about “me” and selfishness, and placating the body, instead of feeding the soul as well. St. Monica’s son, Augustine, is a great example of someone who had unhealthy ambition and sought pleasures in all of its forms and chose to use his gifts and talents in a more productive and generous way. In conclusion, I think it is good for us to ask ourselves: “Am I good at denying myself? Where and when do I need to deny myself more?” When we deny ourselves, we become more holy. Holy doesn’t mean being a stick in the mud… It means being more holistic… Having one foot here on earth, but always prepared to step with the other foot into heaven by a virtuous life (where the priest doesn’t have to make up things in your funeral homily… he’ll know what to say based on the beauty of your life!). Have a great week!