I have been going to church more regularly and find myself moved by the homily no matter who is giving it. I want to take this time to reflect on the past three weeks of homilies.
1-2. Religion is a way to grow together. take apart the word religion in Latin and it means to bind together. So why is it that it is also something that divides people and causes friendships to end. Religion should be what allows us to talk about our differences and accept them as well as one another for who we are, not to bring each other down. We are all God's children and he loves us for who we are. It's as easy as that. Hate and intolerance does not fit into that equation. If we are calling ourselves christians, shouldn't we act like it??
3. Not only are we in a war overseas, but here, in America, we are fighting a cultural war. the music industry, the internet, etc, are portraying women as objects, therefore lessers of men and using violence to make money. What is this society coming to? I don't understand. We need to stand up against these evils in our society and become closer to God. Our relationship with God is strained by pornography, violence and objectifying women. It's also damaging to relationships with others.
I have grown into a better person. I have become closer with God and Jesus. I went through a lot of hurtful things a couple of years ago with friends and people who I thought cared about me. They were involved in the church so I took it out on the church and I pulled away from my religion. Religion is so important. I learned that Jesus was right there waiting for me to come back when I was ready. I know I was wrong to pull away from the most important thing in my life, but it was necessary for me to realize how truly important my faith is. If you are reading this, you may be thinking "well, duh Andrea." and I understand why. But try and see it through my eyes. When you get hurt or are scared, don't you push away the people who love you the most? I do. Not proud to admit it, but I'm human and I make mistakes and I learn from them.
