All Christians are called to holiness. Holiness? Whoa! Ambigat naman niyan! Most Christians tend to shy away when holiness is the subject. Indifference is an initial reaction due to the preconception that such disposition is only meant for those who are in the priesthood, religious and consecrated life since it is highly spiritual. Moreover, holiness seems so unreachable and is only for the saints. So, if it is not merely about religious practices and symbols, what then?
Holiness is wholeness; that is being well-rounded in our moral, sexual, spiritual, physiological, mental, physical, emotional, and social aspects. It is perfection. That is, not actually making perfect things but doing things with perfect love and the purest intentions. It does not need to take us away from our regular duties; nor does it pull us out from our present situation before we can be in such a state. It is working with compassion and doing something positive. Holiness is not “AT LEAST” but “AT MOST.” It is being an A-plus person who willingly and joyfully takes an extra mile and is generous in giving. It is being merciful and acting on it. It is authentic love – being able to love not only those who love us but our enemies as well.
Holiness, therefore, is not at all complicated. It is very simple. It is simply choosing love our vocation just as St. Therese of the Child Jesus did. And the more we become like God, the more simple we become.
