Brothers and sisters: What does Scripture say? The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart —that is, the word of faith that we preach—, for, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved. For the Scripture says, No one who believes in him will be put to shame. For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all,enriching all who call upon him. Romans 10: 8-13
The Lord is Near You! This comforting concept is one that we hear often, "Don't worry, God is here!" But an equally popular concept is the age old reality that "seeing IS believing". Where do we see the Lord, or from what loudspeaker, or pulpit do we hear Him? I'd love to know the answer so as to write it here, but that would feed your need to have to see to believe. Today, is it possible for us to let go and truly believe in our God without condition? The answer is YES, but a few steps must be considered along the way.
Confess with Your Mouth, and Believe with Your Heart! This is a simple truth, but a hard act to follow. St. Paul is writing to the Roman people (but includes all, whether jew or greek), who need to change their ways. They need to be honest with themselves, and consider that their way of living might be the reason why they feel so lost, or unfullfilled. In my quasi-counselor chair, I would certainly agree that people who hurt should talk about it, and speak to their responsibility (for that hurt) before blaming the world around them. Speaking about things encourages reflection, and reflection opens the heart, and strengthens one's spirit. This opens the door to belief and salvation!
When our Lord Jesus is tempted in the desert, he reminds Satan, and the rest of us that:
- We Need the Lord, More Than Food! So don't try to tempt me with lavish food, items or empty promises!
- When We Worship the Lord, We Are Saved! So reclaim your purpose, and love the God who has always LOVED YOU!
- We Are Supported by the Lord, and We Do Not Walk Alone! So let the angels come and greet you, and after a long and happy life, lead you to Paradise!
- Don't Test the Lord, Trust Him! So relax!
St. Paul reassures the Romans, and us, that, "no one who believes in the Lord will be put to shame". This whole Lenten concept, and the challenge for us to journey is truly worth the trouble. May the Lord strengthen you in avoiding the temptations, and bless you in your efforts to speak and believe!
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