HOLY / HOLINESS
Understanding and Embracing Divine Perfection
Holiness, a concept deeply rooted in Christian theology, signifies a state of spiritual perfection and purity. It is the ultimate goal for Christians, reflecting the divine nature of God Himself. This article explores the profound nature of holiness, its exemplification in Jesus Christ, and its implications for believers today.
The Nature of Holiness
Holiness, or sanctity, is the result of sanctification – a divine act by which God justifies us and claims us as His own. According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, holiness involves both separation from the secular world and a firm attachment to God, our ultimate end and primary principle. St. Thomas Aquinas elaborates that holiness is the virtue by which a person’s mind and actions are directed towards God, making all acts subservient to Him.
God’s Holiness
God is the epitome of holiness. When the prophet Isaiah had a vision of heaven, he witnessed the Seraphim proclaiming, “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts! All the earth is filled with his glory!” (Isa 6:3). This triple declaration of God’s holiness underscores His absolute purity and majesty. Isaiah frequently referred to God as “the Holy One of Israel,” emphasizing His unique and unparalleled sanctity.
Jesus Christ: The Embodiment of Holiness
As the second person of the Most Holy Trinity, Jesus Christ embodies perfect holiness. Despite taking on human nature, His divine origin ensured that He remained free from sin. Jesus demonstrated how humanity could mirror God’s holiness by maintaining a covenantal relationship with God and performing acts of charity, even towards adversaries.
In the New Testament, Jesus’ holiness is acknowledged by various figures. For instance, during His teaching in a synagogue in Capernaum, a man with an unclean spirit recognized Him, exclaiming, “I know who you are – the Holy One of God!” (Mk 1:24). This recognition was not isolated; Peter also affirmed Jesus’ divinity and holiness multiple times. He declared, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (Mt 16:16) and “We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God” (Jn 6:69), acknowledging Jesus as the promised Savior who would defeat Satan and redeem humanity .
The Call to Holiness for Christians
Catholic teaching emphasizes that all Christians are called to holiness, a doctrine reinforced by the Second Vatican Council. Holiness is described as the fullness of Christian life and the perfection of charity, achievable through God’s grace and our cooperation with it. This involves striving to think, feel, act, and live like Christ, embodying the virtues He taught and lived.
Holiness is not merely a personal quest but a response to God’s invitation to let His holiness dwell within us. As Dr. Scott Hahn explains, holiness transforms us through the sharing of God’s divine life, making us “other Christs” in the world.
Practical Steps Towards Holiness
To grow in holiness, Catholics are encouraged to:
– Engage in Prayer and Sacraments: Regular participation in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, provides the grace needed for sanctification.
– Live the Virtues: Emulating Christ’s virtues, such as humility, charity, and patience, helps align our lives with God’s will.
– Practice the Beatitudes: The Beatitudes, taught by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, offer a blueprint for holy living.
– Commit to Daily Spiritual Battle: Overcoming sin and temptation requires constant effort and reliance on God’s grace.
REFLECTION
In our modern world, the call to holiness remains as relevant as ever. As Christians, we are invited to reflect God’s holiness in our lives, becoming beacons of His love and truth. By striving for holiness, we not only draw closer to God but also inspire others to seek His divine presence.
In conclusion, holiness is the essence of our Christian vocation. It is a journey of transformation, guided by God’s grace and our commitment to live as true disciples of Christ. Let us embrace this call with faith and determination, knowing that in our pursuit of holiness, we fulfill our ultimate purpose as children of God.