Vices into Virtues – Reflection on Matthew 12:28-34 ~
You may be noticing and trying not to judge certain cults seeming to speak against the Holy Spirit’s gift of peace, love, and compassion. Undoubtedly, evil’s entire purpose is to denounce love. When I read or hear about situations that are the opposite of love, I remind myself that love between Father and Son is the Holy Spirit. The Spirit has taken up residence within to guide our journey toward union with God. Through us, the Spirit’s gifts can let others see we are in the Kingdom of God and love conquers all. With cooperation, the Holy Spirit and our unconditional love change vices into virtues.
The Evil Counsel by James Tissot’s painting at full resolution.
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Lenten Reflections
Matthew 12:28-34 Scripture*
But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you. 29 Or how can one enter a strong man’s house and plunder his property, without first tying up the strong man? Then indeed the house can be plundered. 30 Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. 31 Therefore I tell you, people will be forgiven for every sin and blasphemy, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. 32 Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.
A Tree and Its Fruit
33 “Either make the tree good, and its fruit good; or make the tree bad, and its fruit bad; for the tree is known by its fruit. 34 You brood of vipers! How can you speak good things, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 12:28-34 Reflection – Love can Change Vices into Virtues.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Matthew 12 passage.
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