I Am Enough!

When I went through the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) to become a Catholic, I was excited to know that at the Easter Vigil I would receive my sacraments and become a fully initiated member of the body of Christ. As my journey entered into Lent, I learned I would experience three rites called the Scrutinies. By definition, scrutiny means “critical observation or examination”. It is derived from the Latin scruta or scrutari and today we use it most often in regard to examining or searching for a mistake or failure. I began to wonder, “Wow, am I not good enough?” But here is what I experienced. 

In the RCIA process, the Scrutinies are scripture and prayer-filled experiences to help our Elect examine their own hearts. They are described by the Church as “rites for self-searching and repentance” and meant to reveal to the Elect anything that is not right with God. Broken? Imperfect? Yes, we all are, and these rites offer the opportunity for our Elect to reflect, find, and ask for healing. With healing comes strengthening of faith and a deeper conversion to Jesus. Ultimately, the Scrutinies bring them closer to our Lord who loves them and called them by name. 

This weekend at the 5pm mass our five Elect will experience the first of the three Scrutinies. In the Gospel of John, we hear the story of the Woman at the Well. We hear Jesus speaking with a Samaritan Woman.  We see her conversion as she becomes more aware of who Jesus is and what He offers. We pray that our Elect open their own hearts to Jesus’ well of grace and love, just as the Samaritan woman did.  

So, back to where I thought, “am I not good enough?” It turns out the Scrutinies enhanced my conversion and opened my heart to understand that I was loved unconditionally and called by name.  Join me in praying that our five Elect experience the same and, just like the Samaritan woman, come to believe in Jesus as the Messiah.  And truly believe, if I am good enough for God; I’m good enough!