October 24: Pierced by Love

Author: Andrew Comiskey
October 24, 2014
‘The entire Christian life bears the mark of the spousal love of Christ and Church.’(CCC 1617)

Jesus gave all; on the Cross, He pledged Himself to us as Bridegroom to a Bride. There is no richer or deeper expression of spousal love than Jesus pouring out His life for us at Calvary. He forged a bond with us there that is like a marriage but actually much more. Our Creator vowed to make us His own through death; He released a river of blood, water and Spirit that has power to enable us to love Him in return.

He honors our choice. Will we dodge the Cross or look at it straight as God’s ‘yes’ to an exclusive bond of love with us? That’s the rub, that’s why we remain at a safe distance. Spousal love requires faithfulness. And we tend toward other lovers. While revealing God’s marriage pledge to us, the Cross also reveals our adulteries.

If so, don’t run from your divided heart. In light of other lovers, ask yourself: ‘Who really loves me? Who authentically cares for me, weeps for me, bears with me, fights for me because (s)he loves me—who I am—and not because of anything (s)he gets from it?’

Perhaps like me you can answer honestly: only Jesus loves me perfectly. The Cross invites us to return to that fountain of perfect love and to allow its flow to prime our hearts. Let tears of remorse flow: not the regret of having broken the rules (although we undoubtedly have), but rather the sorrow of having betrayed the best relationship we’ve ever had. Jesus espoused Himself to us at Calvary, and if we have said to yes to Him there, then His spousal light will reveal our infidelities.

Perhaps for the first time, Love invites you to look at your adulterous heart. Don’t run or turn against yourself. Let the truth of His undying pledge of love for you recapture your heart. Enter again His tender and strong river: water to cleanse you, blood to give you new life, Spirit to revive your hurting soul. Remember, unlike a mere spouse, He is the Bridegroom who makes a way for willing hearts to become faithful lovers. He is making us His Bride, responsive and clean, transformed by Love alone.

Please join us as we pray for:

1. Eastern Midwest Region, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Amy Van Cott – Coordinator: Strength and vision for Amy, for existing groups and to see new groups established.
2. International Theology of the Body Congress (www.tobcongress.com): Advance for beautiful teachings of John Paul II throughout the world.
3. RHN: Prayer for Anne Paulk, as Executive Director, protection and provision for her and her three sons and extended family.

“Courage for Pope Francis, that he would ensure that the Church becomes a clear fountain of transformation for persons with same-sex attraction!”

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