Expert: George A. Card,sfo, M.I - 11/25/2004

Question
Hi George,
Thanks for your time, ive got a few questions. Okay, the first is: Ive always thought that lukewarmness is terrible, in accordance with the bible and logic. But what is lukewarmness? I often feel that i should give it all up to the poor, etc. but i hear that only some are called to do that. What is it, the people who are called to do that dont get enjoyment out of the fruits of the earth (in moderation) and the laypeople have to much. I do believe everyone should live in moderate poverty but with enough to have a good time, provided with healthy hobbies. So what is it? Another question. Christianty, in my opinion, fits best with logic and thats why i believe in it but christians are the worst when it comes to judgementalism. Although they may be right i dont think thats what jesus was all about. If im asked about my religion i dont tell people their wrong but i try to tell them why i believe what i do, if they ask. Are their any bible qoutes that are clear in saying not to tell others they are wrong? Lastly, what is the sin against the holy spirit that cant be forgiven? thank you so much, Barrett

P.S: i saw christian fundamentalism up their, im catholic and i see u are and i just saw a jack chick tract. Theyre pretty cheesy but i dont wanna bash him. I saw one against catholicism and it did point out that in the bible it does state that only god is to be worshipped nothing else. Is the catholic response that the eucharist IS god therefore its no problem?

Answer
               Peace of the Living God Be Yours!!



Dear Barrett,
  Thanks for writing. I will attempt answer questions, in the order I see them within your letter. If I miss one be sure to let me know.

  1. Lukewarmness, in Sacred Scripture generally refer to half hearted interest or effort. Spiritual we are all called to give all up for Christ yet not all of us are called to do so physically. It seems I should quote you for you seem to good grasp of what I am trying to say. Bless you.
  2. We are not to judge and sentence souls but we can judge acts and fruits of a person or groups. If we judge,we must remember God see the heart far better then we can. Christ warns and commands us in Matthew's Gospel:
Matthew 7:15-17

"Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit."

As long as we remember God has the final word on their souls and ours, we will be not judgemental in the wrong way. Or we judge a person's wrong,I am sure God will grant us His mercy.

At times scripture tell we should warn others, heres some examples:
Ezekiel 33:8-9
When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.


1 Thessalonians 5:13-15
And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves.Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the
feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.

With the above in mind, I now recall the words of St Francis of Assisi in a letter to laity: Preach the Gospel, use words when you need to.

Yes it is God in the Eucharist, therefore as you there is no problem. The Problem is they dont believe Jesus who is true Man and true God.
 

                      God Bless
           your servant but His First
                  george "ravjerome72"