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Saturday, March 22, 2003

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Micah 7:14-15, 18-20
Psalm 103
Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

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on the honor system

"Quick! Bring out the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and shoes on his feet." —Luke 15:22

Because God is our Father, He honors us. Although we are tempted to hate and dishonor ourselves when we begin to see the enormity of our sins, the Lord commands us to love ourselves (Lk 10:27). He forgives and honors us. Conversely, Satan, who initially told us our sins were not sinful, later accuses us night and day (Rv 12:10) and tries to put us on a guilt trip leading us to despair. But when we are tempted to hate ourselves, the Lord runs out to meet us, throws His arms around our necks, and kisses us (Lk 15:20). He honors us in very practical ways and even has a special reception in our honor (Lk 15:22-23).

Moreover, our heavenly Father commands us to honor and worship Him. We must especially honor our fathers and our mothers (Ex 20:12) in response to being already honored by Him. The Lord commands us: "You must esteem the person of every man. Foster love for the brothers, reverence for God, respect for the emperor" (1 Pt 2:17).

In summary, "worthy is the Lamb That was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honor and glory and praise!" (Rv 5:12) In Jesus, we are honorable and honored by the Lord. We pass on this honor to everyone — even our enemies — and in a special way to our parents. We are "on the honor system."

Prayer:  Father, this Lent may I honor those whom I have dishonored.

Promise:  "You will cast into the depths of the sea all our sins." —Mi 7:19

Praise:  When tempted to self-hatred, Julie reflects upon the fact that she is a child of the living God.

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Robert L. Hagedorn, August 1, 2002


Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, August 7, 2002