1 Timothy 1: 15 – 17.  This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.  However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life.  Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. 

I am a sinner
I am a sinner.  In fact, I am the chief of sinners.  I am not exaggerating.  I am proud; I am vain; I get passionate about things that do not matter; I am lazy about things that do matter; I do not properly guard my thoughts, my eyes, or my tongue.  I judge others; love no one but myself; blame those around me (to include even God) for my problems; claim credit for my successes; and generally order my life in a way that discourages the growth of peace and love in me and those around me.  I sow confusion and fear in the garden of my heart and in the fields around me.  I say that I love others, but only care for them when it suits my own interests.  I turn away beggars and seek praise from the fallen.  My life is a mockery of virtue.  Faith, hope, love, wisdom, justice, patience, and moderation have no home in me.

I am the first of sinners
So believe me when I tell you that I am the first and chief among sinners.  My sins all but consumed me in my younger years.  They were threatening to destroy me and my family, and to turn my very presence into a blight on my community.  I had no hope for true happiness; my only hope was that I might be able find enough diversions, enough hobbies, enough forgetfulness, to allow me to stumble towards death without losing my mind. 

I would still be there were it not for Jesus Christ.  He did more than tell me of God’s plan for my life: He gave me His love.  He showed me that life was something that could be embraced and enjoyed.  He demonstrated that love could be trusted; that faith and hope were rational responses to the reality of a perfect God.  And He enfolded me within a virtuous family and community that allowed Him to continue to bring out the best in me.  In short, He brought me peace.  He brought me love.  He brought me salvation.

God offered me mercy (so obviously he will offer the same to you)
Now I offer my story and my life to you, so that God might work the same transformation in your life.  Many of you suffer so much. This world can be so cruel, and we can be so hurtful to ourselves and to one another.  But we were not made to live in such pain; we were not made to spread confusion. 

Christ is offering you another way.  He came into the world to save people like you and me.  Accept His longsuffering mercy.  Immerse yourself in His prayer, in His Sacraments, in the fellowship of His Church. Allow Him to dispel your dread and bring you His peace now and for all eternity. 

Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.