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Just as cars require regular alignments to ensure they run smoothly and efficiently, so do we. We are called to a lifelong process of conversion. We are called to align our lives with God’s will. We are called to move from what is common to what is normal. Find out what that means in today’s message.
Normal Behavior refers to actions that align with the inherent nature of humanity as created by God. Normal behavior is rooted in the moral law inscribed in human nature. Normal behavior is characterized by a consistent tendency towards good actions that reflect one’s true nature and purpose, which is to live in accordance with God’s will.
Common Human Behavior in contrast, encompasses the actions and choices that are frequently observed in society, which may not necessarily align with the moral law and God’s design. Common behavior is often influenced by cultural norms, societal pressures, and individual circumstances, which may lead to actions that deviate from what is considered normal in the eyes of God.
The difference between common and normal behavior lies in the source and alignment of these behaviors with divine intention. Normal behavior is intrinsically good and reflects the dignity of the human person, while common human behavior may include actions that are morally ambiguous or even contrary to moral law. Normal behavior is consistent with the eternal moral truths, whereas common behavior fluctuates based on societal trends and individual choices.
Thus, our lives are a process of ongoing conversion, a moving away from living a life that is common and moving towards one that is normal in the eyes of God. This is a continuous journey of spiritual growth and renewal.
As humans we tend to do what is common but, as Christians, we are called to do what is normal in God’s eyes. Compare what happens to a car if it is out of alignment to what happens if our life is out of alignment with God.
Just like a car gets out of alignment, so do we when we are misaligned with God. A misaligned vehicle experiences uneven tire wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel efficiency. When we stray from God’s path we encounter spiritual disarray, moral imbalance, and it becomes harder to live as God intends us to live.
A car that is not properly aligned will veer off course, requiring constant correction to stay on the road. Similarly, if we are in spiritual disarray and are out of alignment with God, we find ourselves struggling with sin and temptation, leading to a sense of confusion and a lack of direction in life. When we turn from God through sin, the Holy Spirit instills a restlessness in our conscience, prompting us to recognize our misalignment and seek repentance. This internal struggle mirrors the car’s need for realignment to function properly.
Are we experiencing a moral imbalance? Just as a misaligned car can lead to uneven tire wear, our failure to align our life with God’s will can result in moral inconsistencies. Maintaining moral balance is challenging when we are wounded by sin, but through Christ’s grace, we are empowered to resist evil. Without this alignment, we may find ourselves engaging in behaviors that are contrary to our faith, leading to a fractured moral life. Nowhere is this more evident than in the common sexual practices in our modern society verses the normal purpose for which God created sex.
Where do we go for spiritual realignment? Just as a car can be realigned through proper maintenance and adjustments, we are called to seek realignment with God through sacraments, prayer, and a commitment to living according to His will. Thirteen years ago, God called me in for a major realignment. Since then, with the world’s constant temptations, and my propensity to give into sin, I find that my spirit, just like my car, is continually in need of another realignment. Have you found that to be true in your life?
Conversion is central to our faith. It involves a profound transformation of our heart and mind, leading to a new way of living that reflects the teachings of Christ. Conversion requires us to leave behind the common worldly ways of thinking and acting, embracing instead God’s normal vision proposed by the Gospel.
This process of conversion is a response to God’s grace, which draws us toward a contrite heart and a deeper relationship with Him. The call to conversion, in other words the call to godly normalcy, is a gift from God, initiated by the Holy Spirit. It requires us to adhere to Christ and His Gospel.
Our spiritual journey necessitates grace, prayer, and a response to Jesus’ call to care for those in need. The struggle for holiness is shared by all Christians. We must support one another much like a well-tuned vehicle operates best when all parts work in harmony.
We are not alone in our need for spiritual alignment. The grace of God empowers us to overcome our weaknesses and temptations. Our relationship with God fosters a continual turning away from sin and a movement toward holiness, The call to move from common to normal echoes the call to repent found throughout the Scriptures.
In summary, normal behavior is defined by its alignment with God’s moral law and the fulfillment of His design for us, while common behavior reflects the often-flawed choices we make which are heavily influenced by whims of modern society. We must continually seek to align our lives with God’s will and live in harmony with His purpose. We all know a vehicle requires proper alignment to function optimally. The reality is, we do too!
Heavenly Father, I long to live out my live in alignment with your will. Sometimes I find this hard to do. Please grant me the strength I need to follow in your Son’s footsteps, and to live the God-focused life you call me to. Amen.
Questions for Reflection
- What are some of my common daily actions that are in conformity to the world but not in alignment with the normal inherent nature of humanity as created by God?
- What steps can I take to get myself realigned?
AMDG
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Please take a moment to share your thoughts about today’s message below.
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Hello Brian thank you for the message. I enjoyed the car analogy. I often use it myself when trying to ease conflict amongst fellow workers.
I try and encourage them to see that we are all part of a car. Some are the spark plugs, some are the drive shaft and yes we also have lug nuts.
However without the lug nuts securing the tires, the wheels fall off. Be patient with the lug nuts and tighten them up with care and direction and the car runs smoothly.
Unbeknownst to them it’s my Christian learning that taught me that I’m part of the vine and Jesus is the vine dresser.
Thank you for your modern parable teaching the message of our Lord Jesus Christ.
God Bless
Thomas
Thank you for adding your insights to what I wrote. I like the way you think explain this to your fellow workers.
Brian