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.
Let us look at two examples.
As Catholics, we know that marriage is a sacrament, and a new union may only be entered into if the spouse has died or if the first marriage has been declared null and void.
We know this thanks to Sacred Scripture, the Church’s doctrine, and our inner perception. This provides us with a clear criterion of discernment to which we must adhere in faith. However, this becomes complicated when we live in an environment that does not recognize or consider this truth binding—a stance that has begun spreading even within Catholic circles. This can affect even our closest family members or our circle of acquaintances.
In such cases, great firmness and clarity are needed to remain faithful to one’s beliefs, even when faced with difficulties, tribulations, and opposing opinions. However, if we live in self-deception, even partially, our personal integrity is weakened and the light of truth cannot shine upon us in all its splendor. Instead, will-o’-the-wisps appear that blind and weaken us.
Let us remember that when we fall into self-deception, instead of acknowledging our sinfulness and weakness—and receiving the strength we need through God’s mercy and grace—a fog descends upon our lives. Consequently, we may find ourselves deprived of the strength and willpower necessary to adhere to the truth. In the worst-case scenario, we could end up being deceived by our surroundings and by the spirit of the world. We know that today there is also a tendency to relativize other sins that violate the sixth commandment, such as premarital sex or masturbation. There is a clear danger that their seriousness will be downplayed or that they will even be considered “normal behaviors.”
The tragedy is that, even within the Church, morality is not always taught and proclaimed unequivocally in accordance with Sacred Scripture and sound doctrine. In this case, unfortunately, we must assume that the spirit of deception has infiltrated the Church, and those who sow confusion are mired in self-deception.
This is clearly evident with regard to active homosexuality. As we know, there are countries where attempts have been made for some time now to promote homosexuality and other forms of disordered sexuality. The situation has escalated to the point where “gay weddings” are celebrated and same-sex couples are permitted to adopt children, among other things. In some countries, especially those shaped by the Christian faith, the struggle for gay rights is seen as a struggle for freedom. Any opinion that questions this is subject to growing social rejection.
At the same time, within the Catholic Church, many leaders no longer adhere unreservedly to biblical revelation and the Catholic doctrine derived from it. In an attempt to include everyone in the Church, it is failing to guide homosexual individuals to submit their inclinations to God and live according to His commandments. Some within the hierarchy even claim that practiced homosexuality is a legitimate expression of sexuality.
However, this is a great deception because the Holy Scriptures and the Church’s doctrine unequivocally affirm that homosexual behavior does not correspond to God’s plan. While we must treat people with such inclinations with Christian love and refrain from belittling or speaking derogatorily of them, it is devastating to relativize or justify a practice contrary to God’s will. This would be a grave offense against the truth—and therefore against God—as well as a wrong against the person with those inclinations.
What confusion!
Tomorrow, we’ll continue discussing the great deceptions.
Reflection on today’s reading: https://en.elijamission.net/god-remains-faithful/
Reflection on today’s Gospel: https://en.elijamission.net/labourers-for-the-harvest-3/