The next day He decided to go to Galilee, and he found Philip. And Jesus said to him, “Follow me.” (John 1:43)
The Bible clearly states that we are saved by grace (Ephesians 2:8-9), but that doesn’t mean that we don’t have a role to play in our salvation. As can be seen when Jesus called the Apostles, they had to respond to His invitation by leaving their old way of life behind and following Him.
As Catholics, we are “technically” saved through baptism, but that’s not the end of the story. Even though we receive the sanctifying grace needed to transform us into children of God and ultimately live forever in Heaven, we still have to do “something”.
For Philip and for each of us, this begins by making the decision to follow Jesus. That seemingly simple step opens the door to a life filled with meaning and peace. Ultimately, it will lead to eternal life in Heaven. It all begins with the conscious decision to follow Jesus. It’s a choice that only you can make. And, speaking from personal experience, it’s the best choice you can ever make.
“God created us without us: but he did not will to save us without us.” (St. Augustine)
Let not your heart be troubled!
~Gary
