Oh Grow Up!

Maturity. Stop making faces and acting like a child! Your bearing ought to reflect the piece and order of your soul.    ST Josemaria Escriva

This is usually a very touchy situation because it hits close to the home front, But read on if you dare. This is a double edged sword to say the least. It allows for many ways to  have this sword  take a chunk of your witness and turn it to darkness. We all know we have two witnesses one is spoken the other is what people see and perceive.  If you leave Mass after it is over people see this and you gained respect. However if after that you are in a hurry to leave and you cut 3 people off trying to get out of the parking lot so you can get to Hooters and order crab legs and 4 beers (because you are behind. Your crowd gets really loud and you call a guy a a..h... because his opinion disagrees with you. After you stumble out the bar talking to anything that moves and your so plowed that you almost fall on your butt walking out the door. I somehow doubt anybody in the restaurant saying "Gee that was a really great Catholic group just look at that guy as he walks with God. Next week a person who was there that night you were is exploring the Catholic faith sees you and walks out." He says to himself "and that guy is in the front row?"

In today's world of television and digital cameras first impressions are usually accepted. You must remember that what people see are what they believe to be.  During Lent Some people wear their ashes while going to the store and restaurant. Wearing them because you want to show off that you are a Catholic is a foolish and self serving idea. However if you wear them to show God's blessings and his mighty works this is a different manner bringing the Glory to God by silent witness is great. course if you wear a crucifix every time you go out and do not cover it you silent witness everyday. However no matter if you are in a wheel chair,constant pain, offer up these to The Holy Mother or as I do offer them up to those in Purgatory. However wash your face put on nice clothing and carry a smile while keeping the Holy Ghost within you and the joy it causes. God wants suffering and pain hidden away so it does not become a spectacle or a side show to stop. So weather fasting, or showing repentance. Don't make a face or complain how miserable you are feeling. If you do this your reward is of men. If you keep it secret God rewards you in secret.

God Bless You all