Monday, July 9, 2018

Homily for 10 July 2018


10 July 2018

Saint Clare is known for saying: “We become what we love, and who we love shapes what we become.”  And that sounds familiar because we just heard the same idea in the psalm: “Their makers shall be like them, everyone that trusts in them.”  And, of course, we all know the familiar proverb: “You are what you eat.”

Whatever we love or enjoy; whatever we give all our time and attention to, that’s what shapes who we are and what we become.  And this is actually a practical bit of wisdom—especially if, for example, we’re trying to change our habits or our ways of thinking. 

For instance, if we find we’re being too negative or self-critical, maybe it’s time to hang around with more positive people; maybe it’s time to give old habits a break and, instead, indulge in something constructive.  Wherever we give our time and attention, that’s what shapes who we are.

And this bit of wisdom has obvious importance when it comes to our lives as disciples of Christ.  After all, our God is a living God, who is passionate and devoted, forgiving and just, wise and patient.  If we want to more like our God (in whose image we’re made), then we need to give him more of our attention.  If we want to be truly alive, passionate about living, a devoted Catholic, a person of kindness, wisdom, and patience…then we want to hang around with the One who is all those things: God.

“We become what we love, and who we love shapes what we become.”         

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