Some people think that when it comes to salvation, all they need to do is to call upon the Name of Jesus and they are saved. They are also given the impression that salvation requires a personal relationship between themselves and God. It seems as if all they need to do is to take care of themselves, to each his or her own, so to speak. But is that what Christian salvation all about? Is being a Christian an individualistic affair, where one is to be concerned only with one's spiritual growth in Christ?
Today's reading dispels many of such assumptions. The reading reminds us: "But you, my dear friends, must use your most holy faith as your foundation and build on that, praying in the Holy Spirit; keep yourselves within the love of God and wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to give you eternal life. When there are some who have doubts reassure them; when there are some to be saved from the fire, pull them out; but there are others to whom you must be kind with great caution, keeping your distance even from outside clothing which is contaminated by vice."
From the reading, we can clearly see that accepting Jesus is not enough, since one must also build on one's faith; be consistent in prayer life; remain in God's love; and be patient in waiting for the mercy of Jesus Christ. Not only that, one also needs to reach out to others, while showing kindness and mercy to those who may have become hardened in their sinful ways, but also being cautious not to allow ourselves and others to follow such sinful ways. Would we be willing and humble in our efforts to help ourselves and others to remain faithful in God's ways, and show good example to all?
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