Dethroned

As Paul teaches the Romans, sin has been dethroned, its power has been broken. Through the victory of the Cross, grace has been set up in its place. When we come before God we are to present ourselves as persons in whom this reign of grace is a living reality, that is, as people who have truly passed from death to life. Paradoxically, we enjoy the freedom and privileges of the citizens of this kingdom precisely to the degree that we submit ourselves as obedient slaves. Since sin, although vanquished, continues to assert its power, even with great insistence, and sometimes gains ascendancy, let us with contrite hearts and confidence in the divine mercy humbly acknowledge our sins.

Painted initial from an early Cistercian manuscript. Meditation from today's Mass by Father Timothy.