When he was at table with them, he took the bread. He blessed the bread, and broke it, and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened and they recognized him!(Luke 24:13-35)

Sunday, July 6, 2008

A seed planted?

On Thursday, my best friend said, "When it comes to stuff about God, you're pretty knowledgeable, right?" In my own humble way (lol) I said, "It depends on what you're asking." So he asked me if porn was a sin! I told him that yes, I believe it is. He asked me if looking at porn would send him to Hell. I told him that simply looking at porn would not be a sin, but the thoughts that it MUST provoke in a person certainly would be sinful. Looking at porn was the means to tempt him to sin further. Then he asked me if self-gratification were a sin. I told him that is why I said porn leads to further sin. Self-gratification bypasses the plan God has for us to use our sexuality to procreate. Also, that by looking at porn, he is helping those who are cheapening their own self-esteems by participating in the medium. I told him that he shouldn't be concerned if it were sending him to Hell, but rather that any sin is hurtful to God. I also told him that God is a loving and merciful Father, but one would have to pay the consequences for his sins. Then I told him the good news--that as a Catholic I believe that all sins (save one) can be forgiven through confession and the performance of penance. I am hoping that I planted a seed. He professes that he believes in a Creator, but follows no religion. Several times now, he has opened conversations with me about my beliefs. I wish I were stronger in my apologetics so I can help him more. I think the best thing I can do for now is to continue to go to mass as often as I can, keep saying the rosary, and pray for his conversion. And hope that God keeps His Spirit burning in my friend's heart, even if at times it is only a flicker.

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