How can we counteract influences that are contrary to our faith?
Do you ever air quote the word “normal” in a conversation? I do, because what is “normal” seems to be different for everyone. The definition of the word changes with shifts in society. Prevailing attitudes toward gender identity, casual sex, abortion and same-sex marriage are among those things that have become more “normalized” – more culturally acceptable – in recent years.
During the Church year, we journey through the Sermon on the Mount. We hear Jesus say, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill.” What Jesus calls us to look at is not the letter of the Law, but what is at the heart of the matter. Our actions arise from the movements in our heart, and so we need to change our hearts if we are to avoid acting in an evil manner.