“Everybody who does wrong hates the light and avoids it to prevent his actions from being seen.” Instead of speaking the truth, a child can cover up a failing mark or misbehavior by being more affective and less rebellious. A person who gains unlawfully will compensate through generosity. An unfaithful spouse will shower his wife or husband with gifts and attention.

We too may have skeletons in our closet that are too shameful to confess. God invites us to welcome the light which is His love. His judgment is nothing harsh but mercy and forgiveness. We are invited not to fear but to go to Him because He is meek and gentle of heart. He is the image of the welcoming father of the prodigal son. The sacrament of penance is this wide open arms of God. We not only receive forgiveness but also the hope of new life.