The other day, Sister Mary Michael unveiled our latest new artwork at school, a print of Michelangelo's "The Creation of Adam." She described it as "the most important half an inch in history," referring to the tiny space between God the Father and Adam's fingers. She had fun with the "art reveal," drawing out the anticipation until we saw what was under the blanket.
This time of year, you see costumes and disguises all over the place. Sometimes they are fun, such as dressing up for Halloween or All Saints Day, or unveiling a new work of art. However, as with so many things, disguises can be sinister. As St. Paul writes, "for even Satan masquerades as an angel of light." (2 Cor. 11:14)
Our world can be very confusing at times, and the Enemy does not always want to make himself known. One of the ways I see this often is in modern-day movies and books, where the villain becomes the hero. When I come across this, there is an intellectual dissonance that occurs inside. Something just doesn't seem right, and confusion enters in. I won't mention any specific examples right now, but perhaps you are thinking of some as you read this.
Wouldn't it be great to have a tool to use to help us to discern good from evil? Thankfully, St. Ignatius has given us two sets of rules for discernment!
Over the years I have found these tools to be very helpful in growing in awareness, discovering the presence of the Enemy, and taking action against him!
They teach us things like how the Good Spirit works, how the Enemy works, and how to respond differently towards each of them.
May each of us grow in our discernment, in order to unveil the Enemy who is disguising himself and let the light break through!
Sister Mary Agnes, C.K.