a name to purify
“Everyone who has this hope based on Him keeps himself pure, as He is pure.” —1 John 3:3
How can we ever keep ourselves pure, as Jesus is pure? (1 Jn 3:3)
- The name of Jesus. On this memorial of the Most Holy Name of Jesus, “our help is in the name of the Lord” (Ps 124:8). God purifies our lips (see Zep 3:9; Is 6:6-8) that we may call upon His name (Ps 116:13).
- Frequent Confession. In this Sacrament, God provides “a fountain to purify from sin and uncleanness” (Zec 13:1).
- The Holy Eucharist. We, who struggle to be pure, might think, “If only there was some medicine I could take that would give me the strength to be pure...” There is such medicine: the Holy Eucharist, “the Lamb of God, Who takes away the sin of the world” (Jn 1:29). Desire to receive Holy Communion often, daily if possible.
- Daily Prayer. It’s easier to keep something pure that is cleansed daily. Sin “clings to us” (Heb 11:1), but daily prayer combats the impurity that is trying to keep a toehold in our lives. It’s like brushing our teeth daily; the impurities can’t readily cling to our teeth.
- The Holy Spirit. The Spirit fights against the flesh (Gal 5:17) and works to make us holy.
- The Word of God. Immerse yourself in the “purifying...bath of water by the power of the Word” (Eph 5:26; see also Jn 15:3).
Let Jesus take away your sins (see 1 Jn 3:5) and purify you.
Prayer: Jesus, refine and purify me like gold in the consuming fire of Your love (Mal 3:3; Heb 12:29).
Promise: “See what love the Father has bestowed on us in letting us be called children of God!” —1 Jn 3:1
Praise: The Holy Name of Jesus means “God saves.” Praise You, Jesus, our Savior. Every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess Your most adorable and holy name (Phil 2:9-11). Alleluia!
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
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