How do I become holy? A teen recently asked me this soul searching question. We become holy when we use all of the gifts that God gave us for one sole purpose, to be like Christ. Holiness is becoming conformed to the image of Christ, and wanting what Christ wants, the will of the Father above all. To be holy is to follow the supreme commandment, which is to love the Lord your God with your heart, mind, and soul, and your neighbor as yourself. When we are devoted to the glory of God and the service of neighbor, we become holy.

In order to do this, we need to draw strength from our God, for we can do nothing on our own, especially become holy. In order to become holy, we need to live a lifestyle that is especially receptive to God’s grace. This consists in prayer, self-denial, service, constant practice of all the virtues, and frequent participation in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist. When we do these things, charity begins to reign in our heart and charity (or love) rules over all the means of attaining holiness.

I guess the next question is, "Do I really want that?" Sounds kinda hard. Well it boils down to happiness. If you want to be happy, holiness is the only road. God made us so that only one thing will bring us lasting joy- union with His Son, and that is the essence of holiness. Don't worry, be holy.