Sunday Liturgy

There was a time in my life when going to mass was forced on me by my parents. Then, as I got older it had become a habit. If I failed to attend, I was made to believe that I'd go to that place that not many people believe in anymore. In short, it was the fear and punishment tactic, coupled with the guilt trip, that kept me going. Now I wonder why all the pressure? Is that what keeps so many away today? Why are you pressured to raise your child catholic? What happened to my will? Why were we not able to question anything? This is the way it is because I said so? Luckily, God did not give up on me, and, He will not give up on you. Like others I was searching.

My mom knew, and most everyone else, that I make my own decisions, based on information, and education, and personal experience. I'm a hard sell. The only thing I can say to you is seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you. Get ready for the ride, it may happen in a way totally unexpected.

Think about this, aren't we different from slaves? If God wanted, He could have created us without "free will." That means, He could have demanded our love. (robots we are not). How would you feel if someone made you love them? The truth is you are "free" to love Him or "deny" Him. Just like you are free to love others. We have the intelligence to reason, we are not animals.

I understand it is my choice to accept the love He offers me free and clear. No strings. What does He offer me? Life in abundance. He is the author of all life. Now and forever.

Today in Liturgy I heard the congregation say repeatedly, "Lord have mercy" and in today's world that's an understatement. God is everywhere and fills all things. But, in that place, in that church, His presence is real. Real in the Eucharist, (the body and blood of Christ) that we receive.

Isn't time you get to know who really loves you, unconditionally, and is waiting with open arms to receive you. Its your choice. God will not force you to love Him. Love is a personal decision.