5.4. Holiness Trap of Mind Jail

The commandment to love God with all your heart, might, power, and mind is central to faith, yet it can sometimes lead seekers of Christ into an unintentional trap. Many, in their earnest pursuit of holiness, begin to force their behavior to align with Christ's standards. This effort, while well-intentioned, often results in self-inflicted pressure, suppressed emotions, and even tensions with others.

Jesus' life demonstrates a different way. He did not exhibit the strain of controlling His behavior or fearing wasted time. He moved gently, without force or anxiety, shaped by Mary and Joseph's gentle guidance rather than a rigid imposition of doctrine. Even when others showed fear or outrage—whether about following laws or misusing His name—Jesus remained calm and unaffected. His peace and freedom from compulsion illustrate that He did not demand holiness through force, but through a natural, loving relationship with the Father.

Forceful approaches to holiness, such as extreme acts of self-discipline, do not seem to align with Jesus' example. For instance, while stories like St. Francis asking his disciples to step on his mouth to counter trauma may hold spiritual meaning, they contrast sharply with the gentleness seen in Christ's life.

To truly seek perfection, it may be necessary to let go of rigid, forceful beliefs and behaviors. Rather than 'must love God,'' one can choose to love God freely, recognizing the ability to choose otherwise. Instead of battling sin with relentless self-punishment, one can calmly choose not to sin without the weight of despair. In this childlike openness, free from pressure and full of trust, the Kingdom of Heaven is revealed and made accessible.