Darkness seems to be all around and evil seems to have triumphed…but just remember it’s not quite Sunday
Many years back when I was in basic/advanced training we had various “phases” that were denoted by color. Red phase was the introductory or “breakdown” phase and gold was the final or “graduation” phase.
In “red” phase you literally had no privileges and were told when to do everything. You were severely punished for even the most minor of infractions and were constantly being yelled at, deprived of sleep, or doing P.T. (physical training). The point of this phase was to break you down, to get rid of the civilian in you.
I believe Christianity has its own version of “red” phase when God breaks us down. We love the world, we love the flesh and God must lovingly but swiftly show us neophytes that such lustful pursuits will lead to destruction. It’s hard for us because the world loves to bedizen sin in beautiful garments and make us think that we are missing out on something wonderful, something amazing.
The truth is, however, that once we are able to shine the penetrating light of truth on this world we can see right through the empty clinquant foil to the dark destructive core of sin. We cannot arrive at this point until we have gone through our red phase…our Good Friday…our death to self.
May Christ bless you richly this Holy Weekend as you reflect upon all the good he has done for your soul.
