Day 20
A Worthy Temple
Reflection By: Betty Duda

St. Raphael's cornerstone reads: "You are the temple of God and the Spirit of God dwells in you" (1 Corinthians 3:16).

If I really believe that God loves me so much that he is willing to dwell within me, then I must stop disparaging myself. No more putting myself down because of weight, body shape or appearance. Even my faults, failures and sinfulness are not to be dwelt upon once I have asked God for forgiveness. Instead, I will turn my attention to the interior of my temple and ask God to make me a more worthy vessel.

Just as I schedule time to exercise to keep my body healthy, so I must schedule time each day for prayer and scripture reading. This forty day Lenten journey helps me set aside time for prayer and reflection each day, and St. Raphael's bible study, CREEDS, is helping me to discipline myself to read and reflect on the Scriptures.

This year's study of Old Testament prophets has been challenging, but the sharing in my small discussion group makes it all worthwhile. I am amazed at the insights we gain from one another. The Scriptures which were written many centuries ago still speak to us today, calling us to turn back to God, to follow Him. We are all chosen to be God's temple.