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'Faith is not just a matter of making sure we do not break any rule'
This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.Father Jordan Orbe, a Jesuit priest and a licensed psychologist, delivered this homily at the Jesuits’ Keep the Faith Mass on Wednesday, March 6. Rappler is republishing this with his permission.as this extreme fear or discomfort coming from a sense of breaking a rule or doing something bad.
I have encountered folks whose extreme fear and moral guilt have led to an anxiety diagnosis. I know one person who is so afraid of dying because he is sure that he is going to hell. It is unfortunate that this idea of Catholic guilt, and the image of God as the ultimate guilt-tripper, gives the impression that our faith is deeply, and only, fear-based.
As we read more closely, these readings point us to a more authentic perspective and a profound insight. Faith is not just a matter of making sure we do not break any rule. The statutes and decrees that we are enjoined to obey are meant to point to what is most valuable: our relationship with God. The commandments are not arbitrary rules but integral threads woven into the fabric of this loving relationship. When we love someone, the last thing we want to do is to hurt or displease them.
This season of Lent, we are used to doing penances and sacrifices. These are not ends in themselves. What is more important is whether these practices lead us to what is truly essential: being reconciled with God and be in right relationship with him.