“If one of the unbelievers invites you and you want to go, eat anything that is set before you without asking questions for conscience’ sake. But if anyone says to you, “This is meat sacrificed to idols,” do not eat it, for the sake of the one who informed you, and for conscience’ sake” (1 Corinthians 10:27-28).
What we are called to do is for the sake of others. Just as Christ gave Himself for all, so we are to give up things for the sake of the other. This takes the focus off of us and places it on the other. Jesus said, “Go and do likewise.” Therefore, go and do likewise, learning to love your neighbor as yourself. Learn to live freely, but always with the Law and the Gospel in your heart.
Lord, I often worry about what others will think. I feel like a fish in an aquarium. Teach me to live my life with You as my focus. Guide me to see that those around me are looking, but that this is not the priority. That they see You in me, this is what matters for their sake and not mine. Help me to learn how to live this new life You have given me that I may do what is pleasing in Your sight.
Come Holy Spirit and continue to grow in me the image of Christ. Help me through all of those difficult situations where I am not sure what to do to see that my salvation is already accomplished and that through all things You are forming me into what I shall be. Lead me, O Lord, in the way of truth that I may now and always walk according to where You lead. Amen
