Eating meat that had been offered to idols was an occasion of sin for many Corinthian and Roman Christians (Rm 14:20-21). Nothing was wrong with this practice of itself, but it wounded the consciences of some Christians. Therefore, St. Paul said he would never eat meat again.
Today, alcohol is an occasion of sin to many people. Therefore, out of love for them we give up our right to drink alcohol where there is even the possibility of this being an occasion of sin (see e.g. Eph 5:18). This is especially true in the case of the public sale and consumption of alcohol, which is popular with many churches.
Gambling is also an occasion of sin in our society. Therefore, love of neighbor can move us not to buy another lottery ticket, or promote bingo, raffles, or games of chance where there is even the possibility of this being an occasion of sin (see 1 Tm 6:10).
Sins of sexual fantasies, masturbation, fornication, and adultery are pandemic in our world. Therefore, we should be careful to dress modestly and never mention sexual impurity in our conversation (Eph 5:3-4).
St. Paul stated emphatically: "When you sin thus against your brothers and wound their weak consciences, you are sinning against Christ" (1 Cor 8:12).
| PRAYER: | Father, may I be more concerned about holiness than pleasure. |
| PROMISE: | "Love your enemy and do good; lend without expecting repayment. Then will your recompense be great." –Lk 6:35 |
| PRAISE: | We who call upon the name of Mary...may receive strength and comfort in all our needs" (Marian Sacramentary, Mass of the Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary). |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College