Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? (1 Cor 3:16)
Seeing myself as deserving of respect is crucial if I am to lead a full life. Self-respect tells me I am ‘enough’ as I am and shapes my relationships in a positive way. Such personal reflection is timely during Lent. Maybe I cannot forgive myself for some action or omission? Yet, God already has. Our ability to forgive ourselves is also likely to increase our compassion.
Affirming young people as ‘good enough’ in themselves is a crucial task in their development. If we remind them that God’s Spirit dwells in them it should increase respect for themselves and others. Since they are good enough they can forgive themselves and others – that will increase their compassion – and bring God’s reign closer.
Have a great week!
Patrick
livedgospel 