Nothing is More Practical Than Finding God

In the Sermon on the Mount, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus delivers a thought-provoking statement: "I have not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it" (Mt. 5:17). While Jesus acknowledges the goodness of the Mosaic law, he observes that people often adhere to it for the wrong reasons, devoid of genuine love. Through the lens of St. Ignatius of Loyola's spiritual teachings, we understand Jesus' invitation is to discern the deeper spirit behind the law, cultivate a prayerful disposition, and engage in contemplative action that reflects God's love and justice, transcending mere legalistic observance.

To illustrate the concept of discernment, reflect on your most recent wedding anniversary celebration. Did you spend the day cherishing fond memories, sharing laughter, and embracing moments of vulnerability? Or did the occasion pass by amidst thoughts of legal obligations and contractual duties? Similarly, reflect on challenging moments in your life, marriage, or family. What guided you through those times? Was it the genuine expressions of love, respect, empathy, and warmth? Or were you driven by rational arguments, power dynamics, and a sense of duty aimed solely at salvaging the situation?

In light of Jesus' proclamation, discernment beckons us to delve beneath the surface of the law and understand its essence—a foundation built on love, justice, and reconciliation. Whether within the confines of marriage or beyond, we are called to engage in a process of discernment, attentively listening to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and discerning God's will in our lives. As we navigate life's complexities, let us heed the wisdom of Fr. Pedro Arrupe, SJ, who encapsulates the transformative power of love in the following verse:

“Nothing is more practical than
finding God, than
falling in Love
in a quite absolute, final way.
What you are in love with,
what seizes your imagination, will affect everything.
It will decide
what will get you out of bed in the morning,
what you do with your evenings,
how you spend your weekends,
what you read, whom you know,
what breaks your heart,
and what amazes you with joy and gratitude.
Fall in Love, stay in love,
and it will decide everything” (Loyola Press, 2024).

Called to follow Christ, who embodies love and fulfills the law with love, our Christian life is destined to be a testament to the love ordained by God Himself. Whether within the bonds of marriage or beyond, consider the last time you acted purely out of love, free from obligation or fear of consequences. Will you choose to engage in such an act today? During this holy season of Lent, will you resolve to embrace love and allow God to guide your life decisions, rather than acting out of obligation alone?