We start life "dead in sin" (Eph 2:5), and we buy into death through our "sins and offenses" (Eph 2:1). In this living death (1 Jn 3:14), we are blinded, manipulated, and drafted into giving "allegiance to the present age and to the prince of the air, that spirit who is even now at work among the rebellious" (Eph 2:2). Satan keeps us in line and enslaved by seducing us to live "at the level of the flesh, following every whim and fancy" (Eph 2:3). Thus, certain sins become our very lives (Col 3:7). When we occasionally get glimpses of our lives of death and slavery, we hate ourselves for our addiction to being seduced and abused by the evil one. Then, we lie to ourselves and try to run away from reality by yielding to more seductions and demonic abuse. Thus, our lives deteriorate "through illusion and desire" (Eph 4:22). Of ourselves, we are trapped and doomed to an everlasting hell of being mocked and abused.

"But God is rich in mercy; because of His great love for us He brought us to life with Christ when we were dead in sin. By this favor you were saved" (Eph 2:4-5). Thank You, Jesus, for saving us from an unspeakable hell and saving us for an unimaginable heaven. Thank You, Jesus, our Savior.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, March 31, 2016

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