“I am coming soon; hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown.” (Rev. 3:11).
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GREAT DECEPTIONS: “Deceptions in the Church”
Today, we conclude the series on the “Great Deceptions.” In previous reflections, I have repeatedly pointed out that self-deception dims the light of spiritual discernment. Thus, one becomes more prone to falling prey to the deceptions that confront us in the world and even within the Church.
Yesterday, I mentioned that overcoming self-deception is important not only on a personal level and for our Christian witness but also for confronting the deceptions of the Antichrist. If we become spiritually blind, we will not be prepared to resist. On the subject of the Antichrist, I recommend listening to my prepared talk on the topic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzGrEYm-kfA
“THE HOUR OF TRIAL”
“Because you have kept my word of patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial which is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell upon the earth.” (Rev. 3:10)
As we reflect on the Father, we join the church in Philadelphia, which received high praise from the Lord for its faithfulness. We can regard it as a model of a faithful church in times of tribulation.
GREAT DECEPTIONS: “A serious deception in 2020”
In yesterday’s meditation, we spoke of the danger that, if we remain trapped in self‑deception and fail to break free from it, our spiritual discernment may become clouded, so that we are no longer able to clearly recognize the deceptions in the world or in the Church—deceptions that, in reality, we should easily detect thanks to our Catholic faith. We must bear in mind that, generally speaking, these are not mere human errors; rather, in matters as important as those mentioned yesterday, it is the “father of lies” who is at work behind the scenes and spares no effort to lead people astray from the path of salvation—or, at the very least, to make that path more difficult.
The deception I will discuss today affects both the world and the Church. In this context, I would like to point out that I have already addressed this topic in depth in several articles available on my website. Within the framework of this meditation, I will limit myself to discussing it in relation to self‑deception and the great deceptions. Given its importance, I strongly recommend reading the more detailed articles at the following links:
GREAT DECEPTIONS: “Self-Deception (IV)”
Consequences of self-deception in recognizing and defending the truth.
As we have reflected on in the last three meditations, self-deception can negatively impact spiritual discernment. Even in the natural realm, we observe that when people overestimate their abilities, overlook their weaknesses, and refuse to accept limitations, their ability to judge correctly becomes clouded or disappears entirely. They are blinded by a false image of themselves.
Just as they struggle to see themselves as they truly are, they also struggle to view others and the events and circumstances that arise with a sober and clear perspective.
Remember that we are called to examine ourselves and everything around us in light of God and act accordingly. This also applies to the events taking place in the world. Next, I would like to point out two examples of practices that have become commonplace in the world—and are even encouraged—but which cannot stand before God. The tragedy is that much of the ecclesiastical hierarchy no longer provides the faithful with the support they need to navigate the confusion they encounter in the world; rather, in some cases, it even contributes to that confusion.
“HOLD FAST TO THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS”
“You have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.” (Rev. 3:8)
As in other passages of Sacred Scripture, this verse from Revelation exhorts us to hold fast to the Word of the Lord and not deny the name of Jesus. Our Father expects this of us because keeping His word means professing and defending our faith. By confessing Jesus, we bear witness to the truth—which is so highly valued in heaven (cf. Mt 10:32).
GREAT DECEPTIONS: “Self-Deception (III)”
With regard to self-deception, we have pointed out that this is indeed a dangerous state that can also make one susceptible to the deceptions that occur in the world and in the Church. Before I go into more detail on this tomorrow, I would first like to explain what other circumstances can lead to self-deception.
It is important to consider that some blindness regarding self-knowledge is also partly caused by emotional wounds. For example, if someone was disproportionately harshly reprimanded by his father for every mistake or excessively physically disciplined during his upbringing, he will find it more difficult to recognize God as a loving Father to whom he can open himself unreservedly to confess his faults and sins. In this case, a path of inner healing is necessary because unprocessed wounds can trigger subconscious resistance to God as a benevolent Father. Experiences that have not yet been sufficiently overcome hinder this essential recognition of God.
“THE BEST WORK”
“The best work we can do in the world is to lead lost souls onto the right path, toward the path of virtue, toward God” (St. John Bosco).
“HE IS ALWAYS OUR FATHER”
“I come from God, my Father, and I return to Him, for I belong to Him alone” (Message from God the Father to Sister Eugenia Ravasio).
If we look closely at these three statements, we will see that they express all the mysteries of our life. No one but our Heavenly Father has given us life and made us sharers in His infinite love. No one but He could call us into existence out of nothing. Therefore, from the moment of creation, every person is called to be a messenger of God’s love and a child of His grace—to be His child.
GREAT DECEPTIONS: “Self-Deception (II)”
Starting yesterday, we have been reflecting on an important topic for our spiritual life—one that will help us fully awaken to the truth, so that our following of Christ may be free from illusions and our witness may shine more brightly in the world. It is crucial not only to put these teachings into practice to shield ourselves from self‑deception, but also to identify and overcome all kinds of deception more easily.
The psalmist exclaims: “But who can discern his errors? Clear thou me from hidden faults.” (Psalm 19:12) In several New Testament passages, Jesus points out the blindness of the Pharisees and scribes (cf. Mt 23:13). God knows the human heart, and nothing is hidden from Him.