GOD’S WAY OF PERFECTION
In our human, limited way of thinking and perceiving, “perfect” is the end all and be all of something. There is nothing more to add. It is a static, unchanging state of being. But the God whom Jesus calls “Father” is superlative, all-expansive in love. God’s perfection means there is always room for more!” Our God possesses us, as God’s own, called to walk, daily, in God’s ways. Our God is ever-forgiving, ever desiring, calling forth our love in every circumstance, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health.
ABIDING IN THE STEADFAST LOVE OF GOD
In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus deepened the Law, in contrast to the literal, perhaps even smug interpretation of the Torah by the scribes and Pharisees, and by extension our own understanding of the Commandments. Love is the perfect way of freedom. So rather than coming to a state of completion or perfection, we are called today and tomorrow, to remain on the way, that every circumstance would continue to stretch us with the capability of loving more and more.
GO AN EXTRA MILE
Go deeper, Jesus urges us. He calls us, not merely to obey the letter of law, but to go the extra mile. Exorcise even those feelings and attitudes that can lead us to violate those commandments. Begin with love and reconciliation, faith and confidence. Interestingly, the early second-century catechism, the Didache, applies this same principle to the Eucharist: “Let no one who has a quarrel with his fellow join you, until they have been reconciled, so that your sacrifice may not be defiled” (Did. 14:2).
BE PERFECT LIKE YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER IS PERFECT
Lent is more than checking boxes. Jesus demands more. Our Lenten journey of 40 days is a time to shake out of our smug and secure comfort zone. This is a time of challenge, purification, and testing. Love and reconciliation are the best way – ultimately the only way – we can prepare for and experience true resurrection. Therefore, Pray for those who persecute you. Be perfect like your Heavenly Father is perfect
Shalom
Osho
