Save me Lord, for I am in straits!

Cries of despair when the results of sin take over the implied loss of grace. The question that will stare at our weakest succumbing is what just happened when I lost my sense of faith? Yet, that is exactly what any of us may find after the attack from something that has followed anyone of us throughout life.

Early catechetical education taught most of us that confession with a priest will take care of the sin we have found ourselves in and the effects of weakness now has left us. (the Sacrament of Reconciliation). When we sin it is because of an inherent weakness that seems to follow our quest of every day treks without the strength of God’s grace.

Are we the only humans that seem to carry this type of weight that may constantly accuse our one time obedience to what we learned about obedience to God? The answer is an astounding no. Paul proclaimed the same utterance when he asked; “Therefore, that I might not become too elated, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, an angel of Satan, to beat me, to keep me from being too elated. Three times I begged the Lord about this, that it might leave me, but he said; “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Cor 12: 7 - 9).

This statement is not just another cliche that seems to be repeated, but it is the best way to find God’s acceptance of our human dependence on him and he reminds us, constantly, of his presence in our weakest moments.

No answer as to what St. Paul’s thorn was, but it had an affect on his ministry if he was so adamant over its hold on him. The fact that he spoke of it meant he was put down in some way that he felt inadequate in his ministry. The Lord simply assured him that it was a necessary element in his desire to continue without allowing pride to enter his life.

We perhaps can teach this over and over while our weakest moments find us falling almost daily in some instances. Again, we are reminded of what Proverbs tells us regarding failure: “For the just man falls seven times and rises again.” (Prv 24: 16).

Or looking at forgiveness; Peter asks Jesus; “If my brother asks to be forgiven, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?” (Mt 18: 21).

Of course I have alluded to this scenario more than one time, but it is the most intrusive question that too many people need to hear God’s response to St. Paul and the words of Proverbs that seal the goodness of God's mercy upon sinners.

Save me Lord, for your mercy is greater than my failures!

Ralph B. Hathaway