Some say that missing the mark is a way to understand what happens when we sin. In
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Evita,” Eva Peron sings looking for love in all of the wrong places,
I knew all of these things and experiences would not satisfy. “They are illusions. Don’t cry
for me, Argentina. I never expected them to.” They miss the mark for which our hearts
are yearning. Remember St. Augustine’s often repeated words, “Our hearts were made
for Thee, O God, and they will not rest until they rest in Thee.” Until we have really been
loved for who we are, it will be difficult to come to this deep wisdom. How many times
must we make those mistakes before it really comes clear? It may take a life time.
When we come to grips with our weaknesses, only then can God invite us to another way
of being. God will now have room for God’s mercy and love to flow into our hearts. Jesus
says he has come to bring good news to sinners, not to the “righteous.” St. Paul exclaims
that while the faithful make up for what is “lacking in Christ,” it is also true that it is Christ
who will make up for what is lacking in us. Knowing the extent of our humanness enables
us to embrace humility, the first step spiritual writers say leads to a truly spiritual life.
- Do you find that at times you miss the mark in what you had hoped to achieve?
- If so, how do you deal with this acknowledgement?
- Do you find consolation when you bring it to Christ and/or the church?
O God, help me make room for your mercy and love.