GREAT EXPECTATIONS

 

Genesis 3:8-15; 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1; Mark 3:20-35

Introduction:

Our reflection for today is on the theme "Moral Maturity." Moral maturity is a journey of growth, a process of aligning our hearts and actions with God's will. 

Moral maturity is the development of a strong ethical and moral compass, guided by the principles of our faith. It involves distinguishing right from wrong, making sound decisions, and acting with integrity and compassion. It is the practical exhibition of honesty, empathy, responsibility, and courage.

Today's readings offer profound lessons on this topic, guiding us toward a deeper understanding of what it means to live a life marked by spiritual and moral maturity.

I am not to blame

Let’s begin by examining our first reading from Genesis 3:8-15. In this passage, Adam and Eve have eaten the forbidden fruit and are hiding from God. When confronted, they blame each other and the serpent. 

This event illustrates the initial stages of moral immaturity—disobedience, hiding from the truth, and shifting blame. This is Adam saying I am not to blame, it is the woman, and Eve saying no way, not me, it is the serpent.

We must learn to take responsibility for our actions, a key aspect of moral maturity. Adam and Eve's actions reflect an immature moral state where they fail to take responsibility for their choices.

Consider a child who, was caught doing something wrong and immediately points fingers at others to avoid punishment. This behavior mirrors Adam and Eve's response which is also very typical of us. 

Moral maturity, however, involves acknowledging one's mistakes, learning from them, and seeking to make amends. As adults, we must strive to move beyond this childish tendency to blame others and instead embrace accountability and growth. We still shift blame to the same serpent, Satan, when we are caught with wrongful acts.

Living by Faith, Not by Sight

In 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1, Paul speaks about faith, perseverance, and the eternal glory that outweighs our present struggles. He encourages us to fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. 

Moral maturity involves having a long-term perspective, and understanding that our actions today have eternal consequences. It requires us to remain steadfast in our faith, even when faced with difficulties, and to live in a way that reflects our hope in Christ.

This is an emphasis on the importance of being morally mature to hold on to the Christian faith amid trials and tribulations.

Imagine facing a difficult situation at work, home, or even in church. An immature response might involve reacting impulsively, driven by frustration or anger. A mature response, however, considers the long-term consequences and seeks to act with integrity and faith. 

Moral maturity is about seeing beyond immediate circumstances and trusting in God's greater plan, even when it is not immediately apparent. Jesus Christ gave us an example in Hebrews 12:1-4. Matured people endure to the perfect end of God. Beloved, do not consider your hunger today to sell your divinely ordained glory just to regret later.

Morally mature people align with God's will

In Mark 3:20-35,  Jesus is accused of being out of His mind by His own family and of being possessed by Beelzebul according to the scribes. He responds by teaching about the unforgivable sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit and redefines His family in terms of those who do the will of God. 

Moral maturity is seen here in Jesus’ unwavering commitment to His mission, His discernment of true spiritual kinship, and His ability to stay focused on God’s will despite opposition and misunderstanding.

Precious one, this passage challenges us to rethink our relationships and priorities, urging us to align our lives with God's will above all else. A morally mature person surrounds her/himself with faith-driven individuals, family, and groups to remain focused to avoid blasphemy.

Consider the peer pressure we often face to conform to societal norms or the expectations of others. Moral maturity means prioritizing God's will over the approval of others, even when it is difficult. 

Remember that, the fact that everyone is doing it does not make it right with Christ. Moral maturity involves making choices that reflect our commitment to Christ, rather than succumbing to the pressures around us.

Let me share with you some points to be considered as we spiritually journey to moral maturity.

1. Taking Responsibility: A morally mature person owns their mistakes and seeks to make amends. For instance, if you hurt someone with your words or actions, you apologize sincerely and work to restore the relationship.

2. Empathy and Compassion: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others is a hallmark of moral maturity. This could be as simple as lending a listening ear to a friend in distress or volunteering to help those in need in your community.

3. Integrity in Decision-Making: Making decisions based on Christian ethical principles rather than personal gain is crucial. For example, in the workplace, a morally mature person will choose honesty over deceit, even if it means facing consequences.

4. Perseverance in Faith: Maintaining faith and hope in God’s promises, even during challenging times, demonstrates moral maturity. It involves trusting in God’s plan and continuing to follow His commandments, just as Paul exhorts us in 2 Corinthians.

Conclusion:

Moral maturity is not an instant transformation but a journey marked by growth in faith, accountability, and alignment with God's will. It involves moving beyond the blame and fear exemplified by Adam and Eve, embracing the eternal perspective encouraged by Paul, and prioritizing God's will as Jesus taught. As we strive for moral maturity, let us remember that it is a process, one that requires us to trust in God's guidance and grace.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word that guides us toward moral maturity. Help us to grow in faith, to take responsibility for our actions, and to seek Your will above all else. Grant us the strength and wisdom to live lives that honour You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Shalom aleikhem...