Episode 2194: From Fear to Perfect Love - Nightly Episode

“O my God, at the end of this day I thank You most heartily for all the graces I have received from You. I am sorry that I have not made better use of them. I am sorry for all the sins I have committed against You. Forgive me, O my God, and graciously protect me this night. Blessed Virgin Mary, my dear heavenly mother, take me under your protection. St. Joseph, my dear Guardian Angel, and all you saints in heaven, pray for me. Sweet Jesus, have pity on all poor sinners, and save them from hell. Have mercy on the suffering souls in purgatory. Amen.
From Fear to Perfect Love: A Journey of Faith
We are diving into the profound journey from fear to perfect love in our relationship with God. We will reflect on the wisdom of St. Charles Lwanga, the insightful teachings of Benedict Baur, and the comforting prophecy from Isaiah 32:18. Join us as we unpack these quotes and understand their significance in our spiritual lives.
The Call to Conversion
"It is as if you are pouring water on me. Please repent and become a Christian like me." — St. Charles Lwanga

St. Charles Lwanga was a Ugandan convert to Christianity and a catechist who, along with his companions, was martyred for his faith in 1886. This quote captures his unwavering faith and the peace he felt even in the face of martyrdom. His words reflect the transformative power of baptism and the profound peace that comes with true conversion to Christianity.
St. Charles Lwanga's call to repentance is a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing faith wholeheartedly. His serene acceptance of martyrdom underscores the peace and strength that come from a deep, personal relationship with Christ. As Catholics, we are encouraged to reflect on our own faith journey and the ways in which we can invite others to experience the same transformative grace.
From Servile Fear to Filial Love
"The motive of 'simply servile fear' (timor simpliciter servilis) is an imperfect motive for loving God. We love God, but out of consideration for ourselves: because we fear the punishment that awaits us if we fail to love him and keep his Commandments. But this servile fear can and must lead us on to a filial fear, namely, to perfect love of God. Then it will produce in us a lively sense of the greatness and holiness of God and, along with this, a deep abhorrence of even the smallest sin. It will become the fear of a child who genuinely loves his father, and whose love makes it impossible for him to grieve his father or treat him badly. With this fear of grieving our loving and dearly beloved Father, we shall be able, without great difficulty, to avoid sin and to lead lives pleasing to God. In this way, servile fear of God, no matter how self-centered and imperfect it is in itself, is seen to be an absolutely necessary starting point and a road leading to filial fear and perfect love of God." —Benedict Baur
Benedict Baur, a notable theologian, discusses the concept of fear in our relationship with God. He differentiates between "servile fear," which is based on self-interest and fear of punishment, and "filial fear," which is rooted in love and reverence for God. The journey from servile to filial fear represents a maturation of faith, where love and a desire to please God replace the initial fear of retribution.
Baur's teaching challenges us to examine our motives for loving and serving God. While fear of punishment may initiate our faith journey, it is through growing in love and reverence for God that we achieve a more perfect relationship with Him. This maturation process is essential for leading a life that truly honors God and reflects His love in the world.
The Promise of Peace
"My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places." — Isaiah 32:18
This verse from Isaiah speaks of God's promise to His people of a future where they will live in peace and security. It is a vision of the ultimate peace that comes from being in right relationship with God, where fear and turmoil are replaced by tranquility and safety.
Isaiah's prophecy reassures us of the peace that awaits those who trust in God and follow His ways. It serves as a comforting reminder that despite the challenges and fears we face, God promises us a future filled with His peace. As we strive to move from servile fear to filial love, we can look forward to this divine peace that is both a present comfort and a future hope.
Conclusion:
In today's episode, we've explored the journey from fear to perfect love through the insights of St. Charles Lwanga, Benedict Baur, and the prophet Isaiah. As we reflect on these teachings, let us strive to deepen our love for God, moving beyond fear to a relationship rooted in reverence and filial love. May we all find the peace that comes from living in His grace and sharing His love with the world. Thank you for joining me on and until next time, may God bless you and keep you in His perfect love. Don’t forget the poor souls.