The priest extended his hand, saying, “I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” He smiled and as I left the confessional and said, “Go and sin no more.”
Sister, quick question. After confession, do you ever feel like a shiny, new car with great value, but then you drive off the lot and your value decreases? Not sinning is so hard! And today’s Second Reading makes it even harder, “You too must think of yourselves as dead to sin and living for God in Christ Jesus” (Romans 6: 11).
I would love to think of myself as dead to sin but sometimes sin and temptation are more palpable than receiving the Body of Christ at church. I do everything I can to resist gossiping, coveting what others have that I don’t, and viewing men as brothers in Christ versus desiring them. But I’m not always successful.
So, how do we become dead to sin?
Perhaps we begin by recognizing that Christ has done everything necessary to conquer sin and death. He’s paid for every sin we grapple with long before we seek absolution (1 Peter 2:24). He has sent His Spirit to live within us to aid us in moments of our moral frailty (Joel 2:28-29). And He will secure our union with Him in Heaven (Philippians 1:6).
As long as I live, I will labor to put sin to death. Although I see myself as a cheap, used car, in the eyes of God, I’m vintage. My value has not decreased, it has only increased. I’m a carefully repaired and invested in creation of the Creator.
So, how do we become dead to sin? // @SoCalTriciaTClick to tweet
Dig deeper into what the Sacrament of Confession means and does.
Tricia Tembreull is a seasoned ministry professional dedicated to guiding young hearts toward spiritual growth, healing, and the love of Christ. With a background in youth and young adult ministry, Tricia has served in various roles, including as a youth minister, college campus ministry at USC Caruso Catholic Center, and Regional Director for Life Teen International. As a devotions writer for Blessed Is She, she shares scripture reflections that resonate deeply with women of faith. Recognized as a compelling Catholic speaker, Tricia challenges audiences to embrace their faith with authenticity. Additionally, as a spiritual director, she provides compassionate support to those seeking deeper connections with God. Currently serving as the Coordinator of Young Adult Ministry and Evangelization for the Diocese of Orange, Tricia continues to inspire young adults to embrace their faith journey with zeal and purpose, embodying a commitment to spreading the gospel while fostering communities of love.
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