Not If, But When

Saint Joseph is a guide and intercessor to those who struggle with sexual purity. He offers us an example of a humble man who overcame his fears and did not abandon Mary, taking her into the protection of his house. He obediently accepted his mission given by God and took care of Mary and Jesus. Purity, as modeled by Joseph, is more than the absence of sin; it also involves taking on a mission in response to God’s call.

You have to ask the hard questions. They will probably not volunteer detailed information about their addiction right off the bat without prompting. Roll up your sleeves and get in there with them. This does not mean you ask them to show you the porn that they have viewed. This means asking how, what, where, when and why. 

No matter your current vocation in life—you can accept Christ’s gift of a new start and you can begin walking in the way of true love. Will there be bumps and setbacks? Absolutely! Just remember that no “thing” is stronger than Christ’s love for you. 

Valentine's Day may be sweet, glittery, and wrapped in bright paper. But that cartoon heart is still pierced. The shadow of the Cross falls across the path of our pleasures. And it's almost as if we become Peter then—moving with Our Lord through miracles and multitudes, wonders and words of peace for a time, until suffering rears its mysterious thorn-crowned head.