Christ Lives In Me

St. Paul tells us in his letter to the Galatians today that he "has bee crucified with Christ and that he lives, no longer, bur Christ lives in him." (Gal2:16, 19-21)

Can you imagine that?  Being so close to Christ so as to be with him in his suffering and also with him in his risen being?   It may seem odd, but I can relate to being one with another in their suffering.  I have witnessed loving parents stand by the bedside of their dying children and be one with their children in the pain and anguish they endure.  I have also felt very deeply the pain of those suffering in the parish I minister in and in the grave difficulties that they or my family members have.   Perhaps you have experienced the sorrow of others in this way too?

I find it amusing for myself to admit that though the Resurrection of Jesus is so much a part of the marrow of my bones, there are days when I may not feel that he lives in me.   This is mostly when the darkness of life obscures my vision or when I center around myself and my own hurts, instead of centering upon Christ.   He is always with me, guiding and living in me.  Did he not say that "If anyone loves me, my Father will love them, and we will make our home in them?" (Jn 14:23)

I remember when I first saw the movie The Lion King and I was touched by the song He Lives in Me.  All of creation speaks of the glory of the Risen Christ!   Even when I do not feel his presence and influence in my life, he is there.  Even when I distance myself from him, he is there.  In God's time, when people get to know you and me, they will get to know Christ too.