My children, I am writing this to you so that you may not commit sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous one.
He is expiation for our sins, and not for our sins only but for those of the whole world.
The way we may be sure that we know him is to keep his commandments. (1 John 2:1-3 NABRE)
Jesus repaired our relationship with God the Father. He shared with us the way to live. And he will speak on our behalf as a merciful savior, not as a just judge, if we will keep his commandments.
In addition to loving God and our neighbor, we're called to repent* and to seek God's forgiveness for the times when we do not do these things, but instead, do what we prefer in the moment. Put simply, we are told to be sorry for our sins and to turn away from whatever causes us to sin.
Expressing sorrow for having done things that offend God requires humility at times we are most vulnerable, and so it can be exceptionally difficult. We won't allow ourselves to be "the bad guy." But if we will turn to Jesus and ask him for the courage to honestly confront our own shortcomings, we find the humility to admit that, yes, what we've done was wrong in God's eyes. We also find the strength to express sorrow for it. Sometimes this can take some time to work out, other times it can happen quickly; so, do not worry about time lines and do not concern yourself with your own shame, but honestly ask Jesus for his help. He will stand with you as you confront your own guilt and make your admission. And he will be there for you once you do.
Today, on this third Sunday of the Easter season, I will pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.
Saint Gianna Beretta Molla, who gave totally of yourself to God and to others, pray for us.
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