Today’s readings tell us that God has to be interiorized in relating to Him. The word “Immanuel” means “God with us”. Since He is Spirit, He has to be approached spiritually, transcending the natural means we initially employed. The Lord says “They honor me with their lips but their hearts are far from me”. Probably I too follow meticulously the externals of ritual, but adhering to the Word of God is quite often lacking. I may even feel quite proud of my church going practices. That pride may become sinful. ‘God in me’ means I need to live differently. Surely if the Creator of the Universe is in me, should I not be living in a way that pleases Him? Thankfully He knows my weaknesses and sinful nature. He calls me to lay it at His feet. He promises to make me more like him. No more living in my natural ways, but spiritual. No more seeking acknowledgement from others. Or feeling I am better in my ministry or profession than the other. I don’t need to seek the pleasures of this world when I could have the greater pleasure of knowing the Lord.

Prayer: Abba Father, may the thoughts of your Son mingle and override mine. Amen