During the season of Lent, many people make resolutions or “give something up.” Even with the best of intentions, we often face challenges fulfilling our promises to change. And yet, we should remain hopeful and not discouraged. Consider Jesus’ response to the scribe in Mark 12:28-34 and the meditation that follows which comes from the March, 2018, edition of “The Word Among Us.”
The scribe said to him, "Well said, teacher. You are right in saying, He is One and there is no other than he. And to love him with all your heart, with all your understanding, with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is worth more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices." And when Jesus saw that he answered with understanding, he said to him, "You are not far from the Kingdom of God." And no one dared to ask him any more questions. (Mark 12:28-34)
“You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” (Mark 12:34). Wouldn’t it be wonderful to hear Jesus say these words to you? Imagine how heartening it would be to hear that, even as you stumble through life, God affirms his belief in you. Wouldn’t you love hearing him tell you that you are on the right path?
An encouraging word can be so uplifting precisely because of our all too human tendency to focus on the negative. We may be painfully aware of our sins or discouraged by our mistakes. We may eve doubt that God is pleased with us. The kingdom can seem so far out of our reach!
But that’s not God’s message to you! His love for you is perfect and constant. Your imperfections cannot change that. So instead of feeling discouraged in the face of your failures and missteps, try to be patient with yourself. Consider these words from St. Francis de Sales: “Have patience with all things – but first with yourself. Never confuse your mistakes with your value as a human being. You are a perfectly valuable, creative, worthwhile person simply because you exist. And no amount of triumphs or tribulations can ever change that.”
When memories of past mistakes or current failures loom large, remember that you can draw near to Christ because he has drawn near to you and has never left your side. Let Jesus assure you that you are not far from his kingdom. In fact, every step of obedience, faith, and trust brings you one step closer.
“You are not far from the Kingdom of God. ” Jesus spoke these words to a scribe who had not yet chosen to follow him. But that didn’t stop Jesus from commending the man’s faith. Jesus could tell that the scribe was on the right track, and just needed a little more encouragement to keep him moving forward. How much more encouraging will Jesus be to you, who already believe in him? How much more will he say that he is pleased with you? Jesus is infinitely patient with you. The least you can do is be just a little patient with yourself.