Monday, May 26, 2014
Deacon Robert Banet
I always say the Our Father but I always have trouble with one of those petitions.
Which one, Charlie?
“Lead us not into temptation.” Why would we have to ask God to do that? Why would He want to lead us into temptation in the first place?
Well, a lot of people have the same question, Charlie. The best way I know of to solve that problem is to go to the CCC.
What’s the CCC?
The Catechism of the Catholic Church. Every family should have one. It comes out in a free online edition from the U.S. Bishops, or you can order the ebook or paper editions. Go out and get one.
I will, I will! But tell me what it says. Why would God want to lead us into temptation? Why would we have to beg him not to do that?
The CCC talks about that very question. The petition realls says, Do not allow us to yield to temptation. Or: Do not allow us to enter into temptation.
That makes sense.
Temptations will come, that’s for sure. And we ask the Father’s help in combating them, in overcoming them.
I can see that, but why does God allow temptations to come in the first place?.
That’s a good question. I think in allowing them, He gives us a chance to grow in holiness. You come out of the battle scarred but strengthened. You have defeated the devil (with God’s help) and are stronger than before.
That makes a lot of sense. I think when I pray the Our Father, I will say, Do not allow us to yield to temptation.
Good idea. It’s good to see that you are saying your prayers in a thoughtful way.