Christian optimism is not a sugary optimism, nor is it a mere human confidence that everything will turn out all right. It is an optimism that sinks its roots into an awareness of our freedom, and the sure knowledge of the power of grace. It is an optimism that leads us to make demands on ourselves, to struggle to respond at every moment to God's call.
Interpretation
Christian optimism is a deep-rooted belief based on freedom and grace, encouraging self-demand and responsiveness to God.
This quote by Josemaria Escriva emphasizes that Christian optimism transcends superficial positivity and is grounded in profound spiritual truths. It is not based on a false sense of security but rather on an awareness of human freedom and the transformative power of divine grace, urging individuals to actively engage with their spiritual journey and respond to divine callings with commitment and effort.
In practice
In a sermon about personal growth and spiritual resilience, this quote could inspire congregants to embrace challenges.
Many Christians take their time and have leisure enough in their social life (no hurry here). They are leisurely, too, in their professionally activities, at table and recreation (no hurry here either). But isn't it strange how those same Christians find themselves in such a rush and want to hurry the priest, in their anxiety to shorten the time devoted to the most holy sacrifice of the altar?
You must realise now, more clearly than ever, that God is calling you to serve Him in and from the ordinary, secular and civil activities of human life. He waits for us everyday, in the laboratory, in the operating theatre, in the army barracks, in the university chair, in the factory, in the workshop, in the fileds, in the home and in all the immense panorama of work.
As soon as you willfully allow a dialogue with temptation to begin, the soul is robbed of peace, just as consent to impurity destroys grace.
You strayed from the way and did not return because you were ashamed. It would be more logical if you were ashamed not to return.
Don't you long to shout to those youths who are bustling around you: Fools! Leave those worldly things that shackle the heart - and very often degrade it - leave all that and come with us in search of Love!
The individual is not only best qualified to provide his own personal defense, he is the only one qualified to do so: and his right to do so is guaranteed by the Constitution.
To the children and the innocent it's all the same.
I am thankful to the Nobel committee for recognising the plight of millions of children who are suffering in this modern age.
Today the two hundred million men in our country are entering into a civilized new world...but we, the two hundred million women, are still kept down in the dungeon.
Don't seek God in temples. He is close to you. He is within you. Only you should surrender to Him and you will rise above happiness and unhappiness.
True humility-the basis of the Christian system-is the low but deep and firm foundation of all virtues.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.