“In order to prevail in this battle, it must be an army that strives for holiness.” (Inner Word)
This inner word goes back to St. Joan of Arc. She speaks of a “holy army,” even for our time. It likely refers to the “army of the Lamb,” that is, those who follow the Lamb wherever He leads them (Rev. 14:4).
“Five wise virgins took their lamps and brought jars of oil with them. But in the middle of the night, a cry rang out: ‘Behold, the bridegroom!'” (cf. Mt 25:4b, 6).
“’Master, you delivered to me five talents; here I have made five talents more.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much.’” (Mt 25:20b–21)
“Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:14).
Who is not familiar with the openness of an unspoiled child? Who can resist this charm? And it is not only parents who delight in it. Unless our hearts have become completely hardened, we humans cannot help but be moved by it. How much less so our Heavenly Father! What joy it must bring Him to see such a child. After all, it is His child whom He entrusts to humanity.
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Mt 11:29).
“It was fitting to make merry and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.” (Luke 15:33)
“But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet” (Luke 15:22).
‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ (Lk 15:17-19)
“Whoever would save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” (Matthew 16:25)
“If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” (Mark 8:34)
Following Christ means bringing God’s plan to life in one’s own life. This plan comes from the heart of a loving Father. Perhaps such words immediately bring to mind ideas of renouncing life and no longer having the freedom to choose what one thinks is necessary for a fulfilled life. However, this is based on a false image of God.
