June 30, 2023

Be Our Guest / Mike O’Connell

Addictions to false idols, vices cannot compare to being addicted to God

So many people of today’s society are becoming addicted to a number of different cravings: drugs, alcohol, technology, food, pornography, gambling and the list goes on.

When we become addicted to these false idols and vices we no longer have the capacity to control our own thoughts, emotions, feelings and to examine our conscience to fulfill our Lord’s will.

We are possessed and become imprisoned to self-centered behavior and narcissistic tendencies which lead to worldly pleasures and promises.

There is hope in a new addiction, and that is to be addicted to our almighty God. Being addicted to our Savior, you will discover peace and happiness this world could never offer.

In Scripture, we read: “Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect” (Rom 12:2).

In the Gospel of John, “Jesus said to [Thomas], ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me’ ” (Jn 14:6).

To become addicted to our Lord, one must know who he is and to understand what he wants for each of us. He especially wants to develop a personal relationship with us, and he wants us to know how much he loves us.

When suffering and reversals come into our lives, many will try and ease the pain by medicating themselves with false securities. Our Lord shows us a different medication which provides freedom, peace and finally a lasting home with the only side effects being love and eternal happiness.

If you are going to become addicted to anything, be sure it is with our almighty Father.
 

(Mike O’Connell is a member of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Bloomington.) †

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