Questions for Reflection/Discussion by Catholic Men
1. The Scriptures at the beginning of the article are quite challenging to us as Catholic men. What was your reaction as you read them?
2. In what way do you agree or disagree with the article’s statement that Jesus “knows that this love will make us want to keep his commandments. It will fill us with a desire not just to obey the letter of the law but also to avoid even those things, like lust in our hearts, which may lead us down the path of disobedience?”
3. What part does repentance and reconciliation with others play in experiencing a transformation of our hearts? If there is anyone that you need to be reconciled to, why not take some steps to bring it about?
4. What part does the Sacrament of Reconciliation play in experiencing a transformation of our hearts? If it has been a while, consider receiving the graces of this sacrament.
5. What role does the power of the Jesus’ cross and resurrection play in transforming our hearts?
6. What role does the depth of our relationship with Jesus play in transforming our hearts? What are some steps you can take to deepen this relationship?
7. If you are in a men’s group, end your meeting by praying together the prayer at end of the article.
[Editor's Note: This is the third of a series of articles on the theme, “Being Transformed as Catholic Men.” Over the next several weeks, the articles will describe how we as Catholic men can be transformed into the image and likeness of Christ. Click here to read the first article and the second article.]
The Scriptures have a lot to say about the call of God to live holy and transformed lives as Catholic men. Here are just a few of the Scriptures on this call.
“For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.
“Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. I tell you the truth, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.
“You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart”. (Matthew 5:20-27)
“Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48)
“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:36)
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:15)
Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:37-40)
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34)
“The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15)
As you read the Scriptures from Matthew 5:20-27, you can almost hear the groans of the disciples — their righteousness has to surpass that of the Pharisees and scribes! Not only do they have to obey the command not to kill, they aren’t even allowed to harbor anger! We may feel the same way. How can Jesus expect so much from me? It’s hard enough to try to keep the Ten Commandments; why does he have to expand upon them? He wants us be perfect, merciful, and holy just as he and the Father are. He not only wants us to love God and neighbor, but he wants us to love one another just as he has loved us.
However, when we think this way, we miss out on one of the most hopeful and freeing parts of the gospel: Jesus is concerned with our hearts. Jesus wants to fill us with his love, and give us the grace to love him and our neighbors. Why? Because he knows that this love will make us want to keep his commandments. It will fill us with a desire not just to obey the letter of the law but also to avoid even those things, like lust in our hearts, which may lead us down the path of disobedience.
The life Jesus came to give us is so much better than we often think. He is looking for men upon whom he can shower his love and power, not just a group of obedient, docile drones. Where is the freedom in a slavish obedience? Aren’t we made for much more than that? Aren’t we made for conformity to Christ — a conformity fueled by love and faith, and not fear?
Because Jesus looks at our hearts, he gives us the grace of reconciliation and repentance (Mark 1:15). Through his cross, we can experience a transformation of heart that not only forgives us but empowers us to sin no more! So when you examine your conscience on the way to the altar, be sure you are turning from lack of love, not just seeking pardon for individual transgressions. You’ll be amazed at how much more grace you will receive as you do.
Brothers, let’s rejoice that Jesus expects a better “righteousness” from us than the Pharisees! It is a righteousness that comes from the freedom he won for us by his death and resurrection. It is a righteousness that is reflected in the longing of our hearts and is rooted in love. And best of all, it is a righteousness that he empowers us to fulfill! Jesus came to call us to a deeper life with him, and this invitation brings with it a call to a transformation of our heart, that is, the very center of our affections and desires.
“Thank you, Lord, for your mercy! Thank you that you do not keep a list of my failings but look at my heart. Come, Spirit, and transform me. Give me the power to love as you have loved me! Jesus, I know that your gospel is meant to transform hearts. Come, Lord, and let your word penetrate my heart, so that I can see your love and tender care. Lord, help me turn from sin and embrace your life. My heart is open, and my spirit is willing.”
Many thanks to The Word Among Us for allowing us to adapt material from daily meditations in their monthly devotional magazine. Used with permission.
(Maurice Blumberg is Executive Director of the National Fellowship of Catholic Men. This article is part of NFCM's sponsorship of the Catholic Man channel. Contact NFCM at P.O. Box 86381, Gaithersburg, MD 20886 or e-mail them at info@nfcmusa.org. If you would like to make a contribution to the NFCM, just click here.)
