THE FLESH AND SPIRIT AT WAR

 *FRIDAY October 27, 2023* 

Weekday (29)


First Reading. Romans 7: 18-25

Psalm 119: 66, 68, 76-77, 93-94

Gospel. Luke l2: 54-59


TOPIC FOR REFLECTION 


 *THE SPIRIT AND FLESH AT WAR* 


Naturally, our warfare is between the flesh and spirit. In all honesty, many Christians today are facing some of the following difficulties as outlined by some passages in the bible.


1. The spirit is always willing, but the flesh is weak. Cf Matthew 26:41

2. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. Cf. Galatians 5:17

3. Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. Cf. Romans 8:5

4. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me. Cf. Romans 7: 15-17


This last quotation is from today's first reading, the lamentation of St. Paul is an expression of the majority of us Christians today. Imagine, St. Paul lamenting that he finds himself doing what he does not want to do, what can we now say about our present corrupt world?


Presently, I guess it is even more difficult to serve God than the time of the Apostles because of our advanced technology. Though, it is my subjective opinion.

I made this submission because unlike before, one may go out to search for temptation, but today the temptation is in the hands of all and sundry, even toddlers now enjoy the pleasure of our present world temptation than when technology was yet to be advanced like this.


Many unimaginable things are happening today which enhances the struggles between the spirit and flesh of many Christians. 


Imagine many Christians struggling to be honest, but being condemned while the corrupt ones are being promoted. How will one not be tempted to join the corrupt person as a means to survive in life?


My dear, we could list endlessly, and the more reason Jesus in today's Gospel emphasises that the earthly inclinations of man who can read the signs of time but can not understand heavenly signs contribute greatly to the struggle between the flesh and spirit. Hence, it is not a good sign for His followers. 

He went further to say that we should be at peace with our consciences and with one another, lest the flesh may lead us astray.


Remember, our reward at the end will be based on what we are inclined to; if we are inclined to spiritual things, heaven becomes our gain, but if to earthly pleasures, hell may become the reward. 

Jesus advised us to be at peace with our conscience who is the judge of our actions, and with one another.

We should not allow the hatred we have for others to make us lose sight of God.


Finally, let us pray to God to help us to tame our flesh and succumb to the spirit of God that will bring us salvation.


Remember that one can only deceive the self and not others. 


Salvation is personal.


 *Peace ✌️ be with you.* 


 *Rev. Fr. Segun Oladeji, CRS.* 



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