Cultural Snowflakes and Christianity Lite
A Catholic Solution to Both
We find ourselves in a world ruled by feelings these days. The harsh realities of truth and boundaries are hidden from view. In their stead we find that we are simply languishing in an imaginary comfort zone of our own device. Sometimes the conservative media types call those suffering from this syndrome, “Snowflakes”. A rather apt, albeit edgy description, considering that these individuals are subject to melting down when confronted with harsh reality, unfiltered.
Snowflakes and Feelings
Evidence of this is found both in Church and State. It seems that we have ‘safe spaces’ for both the citizenry in general and for those so afflicted in the pews. Many are governed by an idolatry of feelings rather than faith and reason. Acknowledgement of Truth is commonly called judgmental or hurtful. The realities that make up this world are shoved out of consciousness, relegated to the trash heap of the uncomfortable. Sadly, this rhetoric is reflected in both city square and pulpit. The resulting, frivolous world only tolerates those in agreement, while the reality of sin and hell never quite make the cut.
Finding a Solution
The above description casts a poor light on today’s society. Yet, what good is it to point out flaws without also offering hope for a solution? I propose that a return to reality and Truth, that is of God, is the answer.
There is no doubt that our secular lives are in turmoil. The long list of what is wrong with society – failed marriages or no marriage at all, childless power couples, fatherless children, and a government run amok – encompasses hard truths but truths nonetheless.
The Truth Of God Is The Solution
We, in union with God, are the answer to this troubled world. When we begin to realize that society depends on the nuclear family, we also come to the realization that we must build the best family that we can. In remaking our own lives, we remake a small portion of society. The resulting ripple effect will travel toward other like-minded families. Seeking out others of similar disposition, and forming pockets of God-fearing citizens, will bring about a positive change in society. We live in our Domestic Church while God is our Champion and will help us find a way.
“Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do…but how much love we put in that action.” Saint Teresa of Calcutta
Change Society With Truth
In taking on the challenge, we must stand up for what is right and just in this world. One way to address this charge includes our obligation as citizens. Become informed, share and educate, and then reflect moral values at the voting booth. Never has there been a time when it was more vital for moral citizenship to speak out. As we work to improve the secular life we need to look no further than Jesus Christ and His teachings. Even past legislators have been committed to this approach.
“Politics and morality are inseparable. And as morality’s foundation is religion, religion and politics are necessarily related. We need religion as a guide. We need it because we are imperfect, and our government needs the church, because only those humble enough to admit they’re sinners can bring to democracy the tolerance it requires in order to survive.” – Ronald Reagan
Even our forefathers understood and promoted Christianity as a friend of government.
“The reason that Christianity is the best friend of government is because Christianity is the only religion that changes the heart.” – Thomas Jefferson
Our country was founded and remains influenced by Christian values and Christian values will save her. As we become better citizens of our nation, we do so by aiming for heaven. After all, Jesus has tasked us all to become saints.
Becoming A Saint
Becoming a saint is not for the faint of heart, nor is it for a snowflake mentality. For too many years now, damage has been done to the consciences and souls of Christians by pastors who fail to call out sin. Prayer for our Shepherds, from the most humble rural pastor to the pope himself, is vital in this life or death struggle. After all, like us, they are merely human. Let your own pastor know that he is in your prayers and you are supportive of him as your shepherd.
However, the end result is not up to the shepherds of the Church. It’s our responsibility to arm ourselves with faithful knowledge. We have all of the spiritual weapons we need, available to us at any given moment. Our reinforcement comes from a vibrant prayer life, including the Holy Rosary.
Faith Knowledge Is Power
As they say, “Knowledge is power”. Therefore we must shore up our knowledge of the faith. Read the Bible daily, follow inspirational writers*, and add spiritual books to your arsenal. We are the Church Militant; we are the ground troops for God. It is our duty to be fully armored, to perfect our skills. With His Grace, we are then equipped to protect and recruit souls for Christ.
The answer is in our hands and we must not shy away from the task we have been given. This is our call; this is our obligation. We are Prayer Warriors and lovers of Our Risen Lord. His heavenly home is our destination. May we vigorously lead others there.
“Proclaim Truth and do not be silent through fear.” Saint Catherine of Siena
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* Father Richard Heilman has been a great influence on our family and our spiritual growth. To join in his Spiritual Warfare team to Make America Holy Again, consider signing up for his daily email for inspiration and growth. We number in the tens of thousands across the globe and God is answering our prayers.
