Read 2 Corinthians 5:16-21.
We entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. (2 Corinthians 5:20b)
Our Lord said “I am the light of the world.” This light travels the land with the speed of, well, light, and it does not return before it illumines. This light draws all things to itself and the darkness has not overcome it. We are drawn to the light, powerfully, and yet we remain partly in darkness. We are called to reconciliation with God, and yet we are separate. There must be very great barriers attempting to block such a great light. What are these barriers? There must be strong cords attaching us to the things of this world, holding us back, preventing us from returning to our source. What are these cords?
The first cord attaches us to things. We fear losing our treasures.
The second attaches us to comfort. We fear being called to abstain, to go hungry, to wear uncomfortable clothes, to be homeless.
The third to gratification. We fear solitude, emptiness, quiet, the desert. Who knows what you might meet there.
The fourth to honor. We fear being rejected by our own people, as Jesus was.
The fifth to knowing. We fear being led, blindfolded, to a place we would not go.
The sixth to religious duty. We fear not being able to effect our own salvation.
The seventh to self-will. We fear death.
Salvation takes faith.
Exercise: let go of each of these fears. Trust God.
See also
- Tauler Sermon 10 [Fifth Saturday in lent]
Fourth Sunday in Lent, Year C
