To the Ends of the Earth: Character – Week 10, Day 5 – Our Examination Helps Lead Us to a Deep Hatred of Sin

I will not set before my eyes

   anything that is base.

I hate the work of those who fall away;

   it shall not cleave to me.

Perverseness of heart shall be far from me;

   I will know nothing of evil.

Him who slanders his neighbor secretly

   I will destroy.

The man of haughty looks and arrogant heart

   I will not endure.

Psalm 101:3–5

When we are caught up in our sin, we are blind to its ugliness. Sin often brings us pleasure and temporary satisfaction, but never happiness or fulfillment. Ultimately, our disobedience leads to suffering and painful, even life-altering, consequences. The selfish nature of our sin leaves us feeling weary and discouraged.

As we examine our conscience and submit to the discipline of Confession, we learn to see our sin for what it is. Doing penance for the wrongs we have done makes us more and more aware of sin’s destructive power. As we become convicted of our guilt, we come to realize that the only proper response to sin is hatred. The grace of the sacrament fills us with disgust for the arrogance and ugliness of sin and helps us to avoid it in the future. As we grow in our realization of what sin is, it becomes easier and easier to refuse to listen to temptation or to give in to the lie that sin can bring us anything good.

Questions for Reflection

How have the pleasure and promises of sin proven to be lies in your life?

Have you experienced the negative consequences of sin? How has your perspective of sin changed as a result?

How does a strong hatred of sin lead to more faithful service for the kingdom?

Praying with Scripture

Through your precepts I get understanding;

   therefore I hate every false way. (Ps 119:104)

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