WHAT ARE SOME OF THE OBSTACLES FOR LIVING OUT THE FAITH? - 04/01/23 (Saturday of the Fifth Week of Lent)

John 11:47–48

So the chief priests and the Pharisees convened the Sanhedrin and said, “What are we going to do? This man is performing many signs. If we leave him alone, all will believe in him, and the Romans will come and take away both our land and our nation.” 

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040123.cfm

Blessed Saturday! Tomorrow will be the start of the Holy Week with the Palm Sunday. As such, it's important for us to prepare so that we can persevere more in our faith. But, for us to prepare better, we should also be aware of the obstacles for living out the Catholic faith. We can also see this in the gospel reading for today. The chief priests and the Pharisees were aware that Jesus performed many miracles, which were signs from God, and that many Jews believed in Him. But, there were at least two obstacles that hindered them in following Christ. The first obstacle was their firm stance against Jesus. The Pharisees had been firm in rejecting the message of Christ despite recognizing the signs from God. No matter how many miracles our Lord performed, because of their pride, they remained in their disbelief. This is also one of the obstacles in the culture today. Some people accepted the lie that it's impossible for them to persevere in holiness which was one of the reasons they intentionally choose to rebel or to be disobedient to the Church. Some are firm in not being open to what the Catholic Church teaches despite the reasons that the Church gives or the miracles that God gives in the Church. But, when we humble ourselves and be open to Him, we will hear the voice of Christ in our conscience, and we will experience true happiness. 

The second obstacle for the Pharisees was their focus on what other people would do with them. The Pharisees thought of not arresting Jesus, but they immediately considered that the Romans would take away their land and their nation. Our faith in God should be based on Him alone. Jesus wants us to be strong in our faith in Him amidst the oppositions we may face. When we dwell on the sufferings we may endure, it may be a temptation for us to give up our own faith. Besides humility, the Pharisees lacked trust in God. This can also happen with us. Being a faithful Catholic is not easy. We may hear negative words and mockeries from those who oppose our teachings and our lifestyle. Because of this, some are tempted to not live out the Catholic faith because of these fears. May we speak to Jesus about our fears and have confidence in His love for us. Even if we suffer because of our faith, we have the assurance that we will be glorified like Jesus who first suffered for us. And, despite our weaknesses and obstacles, let's focus on God's merciful love. Even when Jesus knew the plans of the Pharisees, He willingly chose to embrace the cross and offer salvation for everyone. Let's turn away from our sins and live out the Catholic faith because Jesus will give us new hearts and the gift of eternal life. 

Amen +

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Fasting and Abstinence during Lent:

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/resource/56337/fasting-and-abstinence-during-lent

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Summary and Defense of Catholic Teachings:

https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth