Sometimes we can achieve our goals by shear will power. The pianist practices a run of
notes over and over again until he or she has mastered them. A football player along with
his team execute a play in practice until it becomes second nature. These examples take
will power sometimes going beyond normal effort. Body and spirit keep saying enough is
enough, but we press on.
Is there another motivation that God invites us to consider? Jesus seemed to have it in for
some who practiced the letter of the exterior law and put down those who could not do
likewise. Maybe these people lacked the means to follow all of the details involved in
dietary requirements, for example.
What is the motivation that God appreciates? Maybe it begins with a recognition of one’s
own limitations. Surrendering to a higher source of God’s energy and love may result in a
fire from within. St. Paul can say, “I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me.” The
fire of God’s grace, which is love, can motivate us to accomplish what God calls us to be
and do. We only have to recognize and accept this gift of God’s grace.
- Do you act on shear will power at times?
- Do you experience God’s grace to help you in difficult times?
- Is prayer a means to activate God’s fire within you?
O God, send forth within me the fire of your love.