Are all Catholics Hypocrites? – Video of the Week
Sometimes we’re not everything we wish we could be. At times all we can do is act as if we believe, because we’re just not up to truly putting our faith in God at that moment. In this video, Fr. Mike explains why, in a sense, it’s OK to be a “hypocrite” at those times. It’s OK to act like a person who believes even when we feel like we don’t. Otherwise, we might think “being honest” and acting like we don’t believe is better—even when we really do believe and are just going through a tough time.
Fr. Mike begins by discussing the way in which the word “hypocrite” is often used to criticize Catholics and Christians. He explains that the word originally meant “actor” and was used by Jesus to refer to those who pretended to believe in something they did not actually believe. However, Fr. Mike points out that there is a difference between being a hypocrite and simply being human.
While it is wrong to pretend to believe in something we do not truly believe, it is understandable that all people struggle to live up to their beliefs at times. Fr. Mike encourages viewers to strive for authenticity in their faith and not to pretend to believe in something they do not truly believe. However, he also acknowledges that it is okay to struggle and to act like a person who believes even when we are having a difficult time. It is important to remember that being human means struggling to live up to our beliefs, but it does not make us hypocrites.
In the final portion of the video, Fr. Mike offers some powerful words of encouragement for viewers who may be struggling to live up to their beliefs. He emphasizes the importance of asking God for His grace and encourages viewers to turn to Him for strength when they are weak, love when they are struggling to love, and courage when they feel afraid. Fr. Mike reminds viewers that God wants to help them live up to their beliefs and their potential, and encourages them to act on what they truly believe with His help. He advises viewers not to be afraid of being a hypocrite, but rather to be afraid of not acting on their beliefs. By seeking out God’s grace and acting on what they truly believe, viewers can become the saints that God is calling them to be.
We ask God for His grace and here’s the thing: God wants to help us live up to our beliefs. God wants to help us live up to our potential. God wants to help you be the saint He is calling you to be. So, God, give me strength when I am weak. God give me love when I don’t love. God give me courage when I feel afraid. And, God, let me act…when it’s hard to act. Don’t be afraid of being a hypocrite. Be afraid of not acting on what you truly believe…in Jesus Christ…with His grace.