When we were baptized, all heaven broke loose. We were begotten from above, born again (Jn 3:3, 5), and adopted as children of God. Our bodies were made temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19). We became "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation" (1 Pt 2:9). The Holy Trinity came to live in us, and we in Him.

In our new, royal life in God's family, we are threats to the devil. He retaliates by throwing at us "trials, difficulties, distresses, beatings, imprisonments, and riots" (2 Cor 6:4-5). That's only the beginning. There's also "hard work, sleepless nights, and fastings" (2 Cor 6:5). Then there's persecution and, for a select few, the privilege of martyrdom.

Life in Christ is wild. It is unspeakably joyful (see 1 Pt 1:8) and excruciatingly painful — all at the same time. "It is a fearful" and wonderful "thing to fall into the hands of the living God" (Heb 10:31), Who "is a consuming Fire" (Heb 12:29). Life without Christ is a wasted life (see 1 Pt 4:3). Life in Christ is the abundant life (Jn 10:10).

Do you "have the guts" to live your baptismal promises and thereby enter into the marvelous mystery of life and love in Christ? If so, repent and renew your baptismal promises. Life will never be the same.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 22, 2017

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