From today’s Scripture: “Therefore, gird up the loins of your mind, live soberly, and set your hopes completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ…Be holy because I am holy.”—1 Pt 1:13, 16

To be holy requires sober living. I have worked with those suffering from addictions throughout my priestly ministry; living soberly brings joy but requires a great deal of self-denial and even sometimes separation from certain friends and social events. It is not easy. Yet, by the grace of God, it can be done. To be holy requires the girding of our loins, an image that means to prepare for battle; this is an internal battle of mind and spirit. Being holy is challenging, but possible.

Father Bishop, the founder of Glenmary, struggled with back issues all his life. He had a special desk so he could stand up and write. Yet, in 1947, he visited Rome and walked the pilgrimage of the seven churches of St. Philip Neri in a day. When I was in Rome, I visited all seven churches, but not within a day. With the grace of God, we can do difficult things, live soberly, and become holy as God is holy.

Let us pray: Lord, may I embrace a sober life lived in joy with you. Help me overcome my misdirected passions and desires and live only for you and your love.

Today’s author is Father Steve Pawelk, second vice president and director of Glenmary’s novitiate program.

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