Illumination, Systems & His Will
Written by an Anonymous Laity of Saint Vincent de Paul Parish - January 15th, 2024
Chapter One: Introduction
In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,
I begin this contemplation, a Roman Catholic reflection on the challenges and realities of modern times. As a humble servant of the Lord, I seek to harmonize the teachings of the Church with the experiences and developments of our age, always grounding my understanding in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
Our world is rapidly evolving, and with it, the way we interact with and understand our faith is also changing. Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Generative Neural Networks, Recombinant Algorithms, and Quantum Computing are reshaping our perception of reality and challenging our traditional ways of thinking. These advancements, while remarkable, remind me of the Tower of Babel, as they represent humanity's continuous strive for greater knowledge and power, often without considering the moral and spiritual implications.
In these times of rapid change and uncertainty, it is crucial for us to turn to the Lord, to seek His guidance and wisdom. It is a time to delve deep into our hearts, to align our will with His Will, and to immerse ourselves in His Word. The teachings of the Church, rooted in Scripture and Tradition, offer us a beacon of light in navigating these complex issues.
I am aware that I do not possess full knowledge of His Divine Plan or the mysteries of the Revelation of the End. However, I place my trust in the Divine Providence of our God, confident that the Holy Spirit will inspire my words and thoughts. My aim is not to provide definitive answers, but to offer reflections that might spark deeper contemplation and understanding among my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
In this journey of faith and contemplation, I am guided by the love of Jesus, our Savior, whose life and teachings provide the ultimate example of love, sacrifice, and obedience to the Father. It is through His love that I find the strength and inspiration to explore these modern challenges, always seeking to remain faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church and the wisdom of the philosophers and thinkers who have gone before us.
May this work serve as an instrument of God's grace, helping us to better understand our place in this world and our relationship with the Almighty. May it encourage us to live our lives in accordance with His Will, and to embrace the challenges of our time with faith, hope, and love. In Jesus' Name, I embark on this endeavor, trusting in the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church. Amen.
Chapter Two: Illumination of the Holy Spirit
In the journey of faith, the role of the Holy Spirit is paramount, guiding us towards a deeper understanding and acceptance of God's Will. It is through the Holy Spirit that we are illuminated, gaining insight into the mysteries of our faith and the world around us. This chapter delves into the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which enlightens our hearts and minds as we strive to align ourselves with Christ and His teachings.
The path to true peace and fulfillment begins with the surrender of our own will and the embrace of Christ's atonement. Jesus, the Son of God and the second Person of the Holy Trinity, became the Sacrificial Lamb, willingly offering Himself for our redemption. In this act, God demonstrates the same unwavering commitment He expected of Abraham with Isaac, revealing the depth of His love and the extent of His mercy. Through Jesus' sacrifice, we are reconciled with God, our original sin atoned for, and the gates of Heaven opened.
This profound act of love and sacrifice calls us to trust in God's Divine Providence. Trusting in God does not mean abandoning our pursuit of understanding; rather, it compels us to seek a deeper comprehension of His Will. It is through our efforts to understand and follow His teachings that we grow in our faith and discipleship.
I believe that by placing our trust in God's Will, we are granted the gift of discernment. The Holy Spirit, as the Love that emanates from the Father and the Son, works within us, guiding our thoughts and actions. This Divine guidance allows us to perceive the forces and intentions at play in our lives, helping us to navigate the complexities of the world with wisdom and grace.
Moreover, our obedience to God's Will opens us to experience an otherworldly peace, a sense of connection to the unfolding moments of our daily lives. The Holy Spirit, as the third Person of the Holy Trinity, acts within us, transforming our hearts and minds. It is through this transformation that we become more attuned to the presence of God in every aspect of our existence.
Let's start to think practically. I turn my eye to the day-to-day moments. Ask yourself, are you looking to pursue the way of Christ, not when looking at the big picture or the objective self others see, but rather, in each and every moment of your existence? Are you obedient every minute of every day? Were the Saints?
When we look at ourselves in solemn contemplation and decide to make a specific decision to do this, we open the very necessity to see His will by the design of our baptism and the Holy Spirit. Think about this. It is a rather simple concept. When I am wronged, if Jesus is at the forefront of my thoughts, in a state of nearly "prayerful awareness," will I behave differently than if He had slipped my memory in that moment?
I would say yes. From the hyperbole of a failed coupon at the grocery market to the more extreme example of losing a job, think to yourself where it is you are directed to, God? Alcohol? What have you decided in an honest look at yourself? In a state of Grace, one where this constant zeal for trusting God, you will notice your decisions more readily, more fastening yourself to His will, practicing patience, love, humility, and His virtues. And are not all things that are practiced mastered?
This concept of "prayerful awareness" is essential in our journey of faith. It is about maintaining a constant connection with God, seeking His guidance in every situation, no matter how trivial or significant it may seem. This awareness fosters a deeper understanding of how to live out the virtues taught by Jesus. It is not just about big decisions or life-changing moments, but also about how we react to the everyday challenges and interactions we encounter.
The Saints, those holy men and women who have walked this path before us, were not perfect in every moment, but they strived for holiness in their daily lives. They too faced challenges, temptations, and moments of weakness, yet they constantly turned their hearts and minds towards God. Their lives serve as a testament to the transformative power of living in a state of Grace and prayerful awareness.
In this state of Grace, our actions and decisions become more aligned with God's will. We find ourselves practicing the virtues of patience, love, humility, and more. And as we practice these virtues, we grow in them, gradually mastering the art of living a Christ-centered life. This mastery does not come overnight; it requires dedication, effort, and the grace of God. But with each step, we move closer to God, becoming more like Christ in our thoughts, words, and deeds.
Therefore, let us strive to live in a state of prayerful awareness, constantly seeking to align our will with God's. Let us learn from the Saints, drawing inspiration from their lives of faith and dedication. And let us trust in the Holy Spirit to guide and enlighten us, as we navigate the complexities of our daily lives, always aiming to master the virtues that bring us closer to our Heavenly Father.
In summary, the Illumination of the Holy Spirit is a crucial aspect of our spiritual journey. By surrendering to God's Will and embracing the teachings of Christ, we allow the Holy Spirit to work within us, guiding, enlightening, and sanctifying us. This divine assistance empowers us to live our lives in harmony with God's plan, filled with peace, joy, and a deeper sense of purpose. May we always be open to the workings of the Holy Spirit, allowing His light to shine through us, and leading us to Him.
Chapter Three: What is Courage?
Courage is indeed a gift and blessing from the Holy Spirit, the third Person of God in the Trinity. As I journey towards Grace, I find myself becoming less concerned with worldly surroundings that are not of my choosing, but rather are a part of His Divine Providence for me. The world around us is ever-present, and we cannot simply turn it off until we meet our next life. However, by the glory of intelligent design, God requires our choice to contemplate, pray, and live for Him. Through our Baptism, we are given the tangible ability to see beyond the veil set forth by the worldly universe.
In making this conscious choice to live for God, our anxieties are indeed tested. We often find ourselves suffering within this design when we fail to heed the call to "not be afraid." For example, in the Gospel of John, Jesus says, "Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14:27). This passage reminds us that in Christ, we find the strength to overcome our fears and anxieties.
As our veil is lifted, we begin to notice opportunities for discernment and calls to be courageous. I have observed that this is often the point where many people hit the "pause button" on conscious prayer in life. Out of fear of not showing mercy, fear of disrupting relationships, or even fear of embarrassment for their Faith, people continue to suffer with anxiety. However, in obedience to Christ, we can escape this worldly fear.
Jesus, the Son of Man, asks us on numerous occasions to be courageous. In the Acts of the Apostles, we read, "So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me" (Acts 27:25). This is a powerful reminder that our faith in God should embolden us to face challenges with courage.
In our faith, how can we ignore the words of the Son of Man? To live a life of courage is to trust in Jesus, to follow His teachings, and to cystep out in faith, even when it is difficult. It is about speaking up for what is right, showing mercy, and embracing our Faith, regardless of the potential consequences. Courage is not the absence of fear, but the decision to act in spite of it, trusting in the Lord's guidance and protection.
As I reflect on the concept of courage, I am inspired to live out my faith more boldly, to trust in the Lord's plan for my life, and to embrace the challenges that come my way with faith and confidence. May the Holy Spirit continue to guide and strengthen us, as we seek to live courageously in service to God and in witness to His love and mercy.
Chapter Four: Natural Laws
In the teachings of the Catholic Church, natural law is understood as a moral theory which asserts that certain rights or values are inherent in human nature and universally cognizable through human reason. This law is established by God and is discernible through our natural ability to understand right from wrong. Natural law is a reflection of the moral order of the universe, a guide for human behavior, and a foundation for both civil law and Church teachings.
Now, let us delve into the modern thoughts for understanding of natural law and its implications:
- DNA is passed down through families, as are often God's intentions for fathers who sin, to generationally affect behaviors, to bring discipline in His love, in hope that through reconciliation to seek His Son, you come to Him in your own choosing and Faith. Isn't it strange that DNA, in mutations at a particular level, can invoke such a response from nature as a tool for Him? This concept echoes the idea that our biological makeup, while a product of natural processes, can be seen as part of a divine plan. It suggests that even our genetic traits, which influence our behaviors and tendencies, are part of the broader tapestry of God's design, meant to lead us towards Him.
- The quantum mechanical and unpredictable fashion in which the smallest aspects of particles interact leaves the domino effect needed, where the Holy Spirit and Angels can interact in ways that still influence the outcomes of His will. This aspect of natural law points to the mystery and complexity of the physical world, which, though seemingly chaotic, is under the providence of God. The unpredictable nature of quantum mechanics might be seen as a way for divine intervention to occur within the natural world, subtly guiding events and outcomes according to God's plan. This understanding reinforces the belief that even in the realm of the smallest particles, God's presence and influence are at work.
In contemplating these aspects of natural law, we are reminded of the intricate and profound ways in which God's will and the natural world are intertwined. Through the laws of nature, God's presence and guidance are manifested, leading us towards a greater understanding of His divine plan and our role within it. As we reflect on these concepts, let us marvel at the beauty and complexity of God's creation, and strive to align our lives with His will, revealed through both the natural world and the teachings of our faith.
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A more difficult but real aspect of this subject is that of human sexuality. By grand design and the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, human sexuality has been grandly designed with intent and meaning. The outcome of the purposes of this interaction between our species is the sole reason for the existence of any euphoric feelings of attachment, meaning, lust, euphoria, to bring the birth of a child. Per teaching, any discount of this fact is a discount against the providence of God's design of our being.
While one may posit the argument of a person born as a hermaphrodite, an absurdly rare, yet possible occurrence, I would argue that it is not the intent of our Divine Father that this specific individual procreate. No different a response than that I would give to the infertile. God has done this with purpose. Embrace it, and His Son, and by the Holy Spirit all things can be understood through Faith in Him.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life" (John 3:16-17). This passage reminds us of the profound love of God, which transcends all human understanding, including the complexities of our sexual nature. God's love encompasses every aspect of our being, inviting us to see our sexuality as part of His divine plan.
The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in Jesus' name, will teach us everything and remind us of all that Jesus has said to us (John 14:26). This teaching includes understanding the intricacies of human sexuality and seeing it through the lens of God's intent and meaning. The Holy Spirit guides us in discerning the truth, helping us navigate the challenges and questions we face regarding our sexual identity and relationships.
Furthermore, in the story of a man born blind, Jesus reveals that the man's condition was not a result of sin but so that God's works might be revealed in him (John 9:3). This perspective offers a profound insight into the complexities of human existence, including those related to our sexual nature. It suggests that even in what may seem like abnormalities or challenges, there is a divine purpose, a manifestation of God's glory.
In our faith, we are called to embrace the natural laws set forth by God, including those governing human sexuality. We must approach these topics with compassion, understanding, and a deep sense of reverence for God's design. As we contemplate the mysteries of human sexuality, let us be guided by the teachings of the Church, the wisdom of the Holy Spirit, and the love of Christ, trusting that in Him, we find the answers to our deepest questions and the fulfillment of His will.
In conclusion, the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church on human sexuality are rooted in a profound understanding of God's design and intent for our beings. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the teachings of Jesus, we are invited to view our sexuality as a gift,
a sacred part of the divine plan that calls us to holiness and love. As we navigate the complexities of our sexual nature, let us always turn to Christ, the light of the world, who illuminates our path and leads us to the truth.
The essence of our being, as created by God, encompasses our entire human experience, including our sexuality. It is a fundamental part of who we are, intricately woven into our nature by the Creator. As such, we are called to respect and honor this aspect of ourselves, recognizing it as a gift from God, meant to be used in accordance with His divine will.
The Church teaches that sexuality is not merely a physical or emotional experience but a deeply spiritual one that reflects the love and unity found within the Holy Trinity. In the marital union, the love between a husband and wife mirrors the love of Christ for His Church, a love that is self-giving, faithful, and life-giving. This understanding elevates human sexuality from a mere biological function to a profound expression of love and communion.
In the context of marriage, sexuality finds its true purpose and meaning. It becomes a means of participating in God's creative work, bringing forth new life, and building the family, which is the domestic Church. The marital act is a sacred covenant, a visible sign of the invisible reality of God's love and grace.
However, we must also acknowledge the challenges and struggles that come with our sexual nature. In a world that often distorts and misuses sexuality, we are called to be witnesses of the truth, upholding the dignity and sanctity of every human person. We must approach these issues with compassion and understanding, offering support and guidance to those who struggle, and seeking reconciliation and healing when we fall short.
As we reflect on the natural laws governing human sexuality, let us remember the words of Jesus: "I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" (John 8:12). In Him, we find the strength to live out our sexuality in a way that honors God and brings true fulfillment. May we always seek His guidance, trust in His providence, and strive to live in accordance with His divine plan for our lives.
Chapter Five: Trust with Systems
In reflecting on the stark contrast between the past and the present, one noticeable difference is our innate trust in the systems that emerged from the Renaissance and other industrial periods. These systems, built upon revelations and newfound knowledge, have shaped our understanding of the world and our ability to exert dominion over it, as initially willed by God.
As time progresses and technology advances, our confidence in using the world according to God's will has been overshadowed by a reliance on human-made frameworks and theories. We began to place our trust in ideas and hypotheses, often finding that these theories did not always lead to the promised outcomes. This misplaced trust, especially in fields like psychology, concerns me deeply.
Psychology, as a discipline, claims to define and navigate the complexities of the human mind. Yet, its foundations are often laid by individuals far removed from the teachings of the Church, leading to systems that claim to solve the human psyche but fall short. The reliance on such systems, particularly in treating mental health issues, has become increasingly prevalent. For example, the near certainty that therapy for children between the ages of 12 and 18 can cause long-lasting damage to their relationship with their parents is alarming.
Furthermore, the treatment of depression with drugs, whose long-term effects are not fully understood, raises significant concerns. These treatments often become lifelong dependencies, altering personalities and ways of thinking, instead of providing a path to healing and recovery. This reliance on human systems and solutions, instead of seeking relief and strength through the Holy Spirit and Jesus' grace, is a deviation from our faith.
In the Book of Proverbs, we are taught, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight" (Proverbs 3:5). This verse reminds us that our ultimate trust should be in God, not in the flawed systems and theories of this world.
Similarly, in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). This invitation extends to those burdened by the failings of human systems, offering a divine alternative for healing and peace.
How, then, are we to move forward from this reliance on worldly systems? The answer lies in rekindling our trust in God and His teachings. We must seek wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit, who provides the discernment needed to navigate the complexities of the world. By turning to Jesus and His grace, we find the true path to healing and understanding.
In addressing the trust we place in human systems, it is essential to acknowledge the valuable role played by surgeons and doctors who provide relief and healing. These professionals, through their expertise and dedication, offer necessary care and treatment to those in need. Their work, grounded in the advancements of science and medicine, is a testament to the remarkable capabilities of the human mind and spirit. It is not my intention to speak ill of these practitioners; rather, I aim to highlight the importance of discerning their role and the limitations of their solutions through the lens of our faith.
The work of medical professionals, while important and often life-saving, is of this world. As such, it is our duty to discern their interventions through God's will, understanding that true healing and peace come from Him. We are called to balance our reliance on medical treatments with our trust in divine providence, seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit in making decisions about our health and well-being.
In the Letter to the Romans, Paul writes, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will" (Romans 12:2). This verse urges us to look beyond the solutions offered by the world and to seek understanding and discernment from God.
Moreover, in the Gospel of John, Jesus teaches us, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6). In navigating the complexities of modern healthcare and the trust we place in human systems, we must remember that Jesus is our ultimate guide and source of truth.
It is important to recognize that while medical professionals play a vital role in addressing our physical ailments, our spiritual well-being is equally important. We must approach our health holistically, considering not only our physical needs but also our spiritual ones. In doing so, we honor the gift of life that God has given us and strive to live in accordance with His plan.
As we navigate the challenges of modern healthcare and the trust we place in human systems, let us do so with wisdom and discernment. Let us seek guidance from the Holy Spirit, who provides the insight needed to make informed decisions about our health. And let us turn to Jesus, our source of healing and peace, trusting in His grace to guide us through the trials and tribulations of this world. In Him, we find the strength and courage to face the uncertainties of life, relying on His love and mercy to sustain us.
I contemplate the restlessness of my soul, a feeling I believe is shared by many, especially in an era dominated by technology and rapid change. These elements of modern life can lead us into despair, confusion, and a syndrome of constant busyness. Yet, amidst the flood of information and demands, it is crucial to remember that only through the grace of God and His understanding can we discern what is of Him, of this world, and of evil.
This discernment is particularly important when browsing the web, a realm filled with potential for evil and unfiltered communication, often lacking inspiration from the Holy Spirit. To navigate this space, we must let the Holy Spirit guide us, anchoring our faith in Jesus and our trust in the Catechism of the Church. In doing so, we find communion with ideas that bring forth peace in our hearts and souls. While God may have given me a restless body, I have learned to find peace in my soul.
When I turn to the Lord, seeking His attention for the restlessness that builds up within me – the thoughts and emotions swirling through my mind and heart – I often find solace in divine providence and the Holy Trinity. In particular, the love of Christ and acceptance of the Holy Spirit bring peace to each moment, regardless of my body's constant stirring. Many experience similar feelings, whether it's through fidgeting, pacing, or experiencing extreme highs of excitement or lows of depression. I believe that through the Holy Spirit, and with the gifts of the angels and Saint Raphael, we can heal these mental ailments and find tranquility in tandem with our trust in the Holy Spirit.
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus teaches us, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). This invitation extends to all who feel overwhelmed by the restlessness of their souls. In Christ, we find a refuge and a source of enduring peace.
Furthermore, in the Psalms, we are reminded, "Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10). This verse speaks to the heart of our restlessness, urging us to find stillness in the presence of the Almighty. It is in these moments of quiet and reflection that we can truly perceive the will of God and find solace for our restless spirits.
You may be asking at this point, with what certainty do I speak of these things, if not by the Holy Spirit? How can I so confidently point to the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father before all ages, and proclaim His power? Need I remind you of the signs of His healing that surround us? I myself am a clear example, once captured by the whims of mental uncertainty, only to overcome it through the practice of my faith, without medication. It is not to say that there is no place for those who find solace in medical treatments. However, if you were to notice even a single perversion in your thought that has arisen after medication, such as a rise or decrease in lust, or curiosity for a degeneracy of the body, could you not question whether it might be the cause?
Or perhaps, is it a form of punishment in Divine Providence that you did not seek His healing first, before resorting to the medical need that might be present? The Lord knows the weeks between therapy sessions when one ought to seek guidance on their troubles directly with their local priest.
In the Gospel of Mark, we read about the healing power of Jesus: "They brought to him a deaf man who had an impediment in his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand on him. He took him aside in private, away from the crowd, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue. Then looking up to heaven, he sighed and said to him, 'Ephphatha,' that is, 'Be opened.' And immediately his ears were
opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly" (Mark 7:32-35). This miracle demonstrates the profound healing that comes from Christ, a healing that goes beyond the physical to touch the very soul.
Similarly, in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus declares, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free" (Luke 4:18). Jesus' mission is one of holistic healing, addressing not only physical ailments but also the spiritual and mental struggles we face.
As we navigate the complexities of mental health and the restlessness of our souls, let us remember the healing power of Jesus. Let us turn to Him in our times of need, seeking His guidance and trusting in His will. While medical treatments can provide relief, it is in Christ that we find true healing and peace. May we always seek His presence in our lives, allowing Him to open our ears, release our tongues, and free us from the oppressions that bind us. In Him, we find the strength to overcome our struggles and the grace to live in the fullness of His love.
..Check out a response from a Laity from Our Lady of Sorrows!
