Wishing "Well"

Throwing coins into a wishing well is a superstition intended to reinforce one's "wishing" for something good to happen. That is a far weaker human act than being "willing" to do something good. If every wishing well were a "willing well," we'd have a better world. 

Philosophers distinguish between volition and velleity. Volition is a clear intent of the will; velleity is a conditioned wish. Volition says, "I will do it." Velleity says, "I would do it  - if" or "I would like ot do it." Webster's dictionary defines velleity as "a wish that does not lead to the slightest action." 

What did Jesus mean when he said, "The kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it" (Mt 11:12)? He meant that the wishy-washy "wishing" type, who are not the true "willing" type, will not inherit the kingdom of heaven. To be a true disciple of Christ requires spiritial courage, vigor, power, and determination - volition, not mere velleity.

Jesus had to rouse his apostles out of their torpor at a time when they needed extra willpower to fight temptation. "The spirit indeed is willing," he said, "but the flesh is weak" (Mt 26:41, RSV). He needs followers with their "face set like flint" (Is 50:7), who heed Paul's words: "Stand firm...Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord...Your labor is not in vain" (1 Cor 15:58).

This excerpt is from the book One-Minute Meditations for Busy People, by John H. Hampsch, C.M.F., originally published by Servant Publications. It and other of Fr. Hampsch's books and audio/video recordings can be purchased from Claretian Teaching Ministry, 20610 Manhattan Pl, #120, Torrance, CA 90501-1863. Phone 1-310-782-6408 or www.Catholicbooks.net