Live temperately, justly, and devoutly in this age

Live temperately, justly, and devoutly in this age. 

Titus is known as a “pastoral” letter.   Consider it a sort of “owner’s manual” for second-generation Christians.   These believers had not physically seen Jesus and likely had never met the original twelve apostles.   Rather than expounding on doctrine, this letter, along with First and Second Timothy, taught Christians how to live in a way that reflected their faith in Jesus.

In Scripture (Titus 2:12),  we calls believers to “live temperately, justly, and devoutly in this age” (Titus 2:12, emphasis added).   Well, that was then.   But what about now?   What does it look like for us to live this way?   Let’s see.

To live temperately means to be moderate and balanced, not prone to extremes.   Of course this can apply to how we approach our appetites for food and drink, and we should seek moderation in these areas.   But today, temperance also includes being judicious about our screen time.   And because we live in a materialistic culture, we need to look at our purchases, being careful not to get caught up in a cycle of buying things we don’t need.

To live justly means to be righteous—morally upright and obedient to God’s commands.   Living justly also involves loving our neighbor as the Good Samaritan did (Luke 10:29-37).   Today the complexities of work and family life can absorb us to the point where we don’t notice the people around us who are in need.   But living justly means looking beyond our own concerns to care for those who are suffering.

A devout person is committed to God.   He seeks to please the Lord in all he says and does.   Many today feel too busy to carve out time for God.   But a devout person makes attending Sunday Mass and having a regular prayer time a priority.   A devout person knows that’s one of the best ways to strengthen their relationship with the Lord.

We all want to live out our faith.   We just have to be aware of the unique temptations that we face in the age we live in.   The truth is, every age presents its own set of challenges.   But with our eyes open and focused on the Lord, we can live holy lives even today.

Word Among Us