Sapientia carnis (Rom. 8:7)

 

A few days ago, Fr. Josef shared a reflection about how an introvert can easily become an egoistic person. When we have so much desire or need for something in our heart, we will focus on it and put others aside. So do I. I have a lot of things to do and I think we all experience the same thing. I mostly grumble in my heart if there are situations or people who disturb my plan or my work. I start blaming them. I know, I shouldn't do that because it is wrong. I've tried quite hard, but again I still do it.

In the last few months, I have met and interacted with some people regularly. It is supposed to be a good interaction because they are friendly and good people. Sometimes, there is a moment that I think they are annoying, but I know it is not true, it's only in my mind. If I try to find a reason why I think like that, it is because I have my own way to do something which is totally different from these people.

Rome 8:7 reminds me of this mind of flesh. Being egoistic is a flesh desire. We should oppose and deny it. Having this desire makes us far away from the presence of God. It is a hard thing to deal with, but it is possible with God. Let us pray so that the Holy Spirit give us a generous heart. So we can overcome our desires and let the Holy Spirit live and reign in our hearts.

By Yulius Telaumbanua, Indonesia.

Gratiam abundare facere (2 Cor. 9:8)

 

Egoism is very dangerous for a soul. Even if we know it, we often focus on ourselves. Today in the morning I was surprised how many times I started a new sentence with the word “I”. And once more I was ashamed.

Why do we choose to talk about ourselves? Is it easier? We do not ask the other person about his or her life but we just want to share something about our life.

Do you have a similar experience? Maybe not. It means you are not an egoistic person. Be careful if you are an introvert because probably introverts become egoists more easily.

The Word of God is clear. We need to give with a cheerful heart. We are to give ourselves to others. Our vocation is to share love with brothers and sisters.

Obviously, we do a lot of good things for others. But are we capable of forgetting ourselves while helping them? Only if we know how to open our hearts, God can bless us so we always have all we need in every possible circumstance.

O Lord, help us to offer ourselves with a generous heart. We would like to forget about ourselves and also our own needs and desires. As you, Jesus Christ, we are eager to hear the cry of our brothers and sisters. Please, make us focus on the needy. Only you can cleanse our souls from egoism. You can heal us and change our attitude towards other people.

Being an altruist is the best option and the easiest way to become happy. For that reason, we long for the gift of the Holy Spirit to live in our hearts. Because there are many egoists in the world, we want to follow your example and to love others as you did until the end of our life.

By Fr. Jozef Trzebuniak, SVD.