Is Your Life More Than Okay?
Br Jared Loehr, LC
In the midst of a booming Roman Empire, the situation seemed “Okay.” Sure, there were wars on the outskirts. Sure, they gave up hope on having true love because their hearts had deep scars. Sure, they were living though they had nothing really worth living for. The majority felt “okay” about life. Suddenly but subtly, new families and new communities sprung up with a newfound light. These Christians, as they identified themselves, lived among the rest, but they lived with a sparkle in their eyes and hearts. Christians walked tall, had a new sense of life, and discovered something glorious. Sure, they carried out the same work, but they did so with serenity. Sure, they had problems but they bounced back up. Sure, some gave an example of hypocrisy but the core message was unaffected.
We live in the midst of a modern-day booming World Empire. The majority thinks life is “okay” and is constantly trying to make it a little more “okay,” but Christians point us toward the fullness of life. We are not here to survive, but to thrive! In my travels and encounters I have met the modern minority of sparkle-eyed people. They shine not on their own talents and personalities but on the bedrock that grounds their life. This uncrushable core rests in the love of our God and friend, Jesus Christ. His life shows us how to live excellently. Simply put, our life overflows to the degree that we love. When we give for the good of others and accept the love of others, we live beyond ourselves. Love is really that simple.
Now we have to ask our heart of hearts, do I want to give true love for others a fighting chance in my life? Am I willing to experience the example of this love in the Book (the Bible) God inspired, and the sacraments of God’s presence among us? Is today the day when I leave behind the majority’s acceptance of being “okay” for the minority’s invitation of everlasting life? Conversion happens every day; mine starts today!
Br Jared studies philosophy at Our Lady of Thornwood in Thornwood, NY. Read his story.
Photo credit: Mary Harrsch on Flickr.
