Thank you again for your good Web cite. Few weeks ago I sent you similar message and, in case of some technical problems I'm trying to send it again. For me will be very valuable to have your comments about few statements.
1.God loves us for who we ARE, not for what we DO.
2."Notice that fruit of the Spirit is not what you DO but what you ARE. In each case the fruit describes CHARACTER, not ACTIVITY."
I hope you can help me to understand God's word deeper in my pursuit for perfection.
Thank you. God bless you.
Yury.
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Dear Yury,
Your statements are true, but they do not go far enough. It is the fact that God loves us that makes us who we are - and also enables us to do any good. Apart from God none of us is really that lovable. Think about when someone catchs you off guard with just the right word and how you react. I am often taken aback by how much violence, revenge, self pity, bitterness etc. are in the depths of my heart, but even more amazing that God freely chooses to love me. "Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me."
On my website I made this statement:
"When all is said and done, none of us will be saved being right--or even by doing right. What saves each person is confession of sins and the humble, joyful acceptance of Jesus' forgiveness. In the final analysis that is what Simple Catholicism is about."
But, yes, keep praying to Jesus that he will help you develop that inner character which you will take with you to eternity.
God bless,
Fr. Phil Bloom