Life as a Battle

by Fr. John Parks  |  02/18/2024  |  Weekly Reflection

Two of the most influential works of Western Civilization are “The Odyssey” and “The Iliad” by the Greek writer Homer. They are illustrative of the two great metaphors for life: The Odyssey explores life “as a journey”, while the Iliad sees life “as a battle.” The revelation of the Christian faith makes plain the battle of our lives. It is a battle between good and evil, between God and Satan, between the Spirit and the Flesh.

Lent is a season in which this aspect of the Christian life is at the fore. In our Gospel for the first Sunday of Lent, we read of Jesus being led by the Spirit into the desert to do battle. He enters a time of trial and testing. Unlike God’s people Israel who were constantly failing the battles put before them, Jesus is victorious in his battle with Satan. What is key to this triumph, is that he accomplished it while sharing our human nature. In Christ, we can be victorious over Sin and evil as we are more conformed to his will.

Our weapons in this battle are the ancient practices of Prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Prayer is a remedy to our pride, fasting to lust and inordinate desire of the flesh, and almsgiving to our greed. Where in your life do you feel bound? Where in your life do you want “breakthrough”, renewal and transformation? Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you this Lenten Season and tailor your penitential practices to what most needs Jesus’ victory in your life.

The spiritual battle is real, but Jesus is with us and for us as we seek to grow in his love this Lent. As St. Paul relates, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Peace of Christ,

Fr. Parks