Let Go of Your Holy Reputation and the movie “Going My Way” by Dr. Michael James

Dr. Michael James focuses on the danger of placing excessive importance on one’s “holy reputation” within religious communities and the emotional and spiritual consequences of doing so. The speaker begins by referencing the Biblical teaching in Matthew 6:19-21, which advises believers to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, where material wealth is subject to decay and theft. While many people may feel that this warning applies only to the wealthy, the speaker suggests that a subtle, insidious treasure exists in the hearts of many religious individuals: the desire for a “holy reputation” or social status within their religious circles.

Dr. James highlights that for many individuals, the pursuit of a “holy reputation” becomes a way to compensate for insecurities, self-esteem issues, and codependency. These deep-rooted issues are exacerbated in religious groups where there is a tendency to compete for social recognition based on one’s spiritual image.

The obsession with maintaining a holy image in these groups can lead to unhealthy behavior, such as obsessing over how others perceive one’s religiosity, striving to “one-up” others in terms of spiritual accomplishments, and feeling envious of those who seem to be more successful at cultivating their image. The speaker draws attention to the emotional distress that arises when people are not acknowledged or validated for their perceived holiness, such as feeling resentful when others receive more recognition or “likes” on social media for their spiritual posts. This fixation can lead to inauthenticity, depression, and social isolation as individuals strive to meet unrealistic expectations set by both themselves and others.

Religious groups, particularly those that emphasize conservative values, may have a culture where people actively compare themselves to one another, seeking validation from those who hold higher social or spiritual status. The desire for acknowledgment can lead to unhealthy dynamics where individuals are more focused on proving their holiness rather than genuinely following God. The speaker argues that these tendencies are poisonous to spiritual and psychological well-being and warns that people can become so caught up in these social games that they lose sight of their true purpose and relationship with God.

Dr. Michael James stresses that the root of this problem is the human desire for social validation, often driven by past pain and the fear of loneliness. For many people, belonging to a religious group and receiving recognition from peers becomes a way to fill emotional voids and avoid feelings of rejection. However, the speaker insists that God does not want believers to cling to these worldly treasures of social status and approval. By holding onto the need for a holy reputation, individuals are unable to receive the true spiritual treasures that God offers. These treasures lead to union with God and a deeper understanding of His love and purpose.

Dr. James offers three examples to illustrate the importance of letting go of one’s holy reputation and embracing the treasure of God. First, Luisa Piccarreta, who was deeply misunderstood and rejected by her own mother as she followed a radical vocation as a “victim soul,” did not seek approval from religious communities or try to create a holy reputation. Her path was one of radical obedience to God’s will, despite the lack of social validation.

Next, Dr. James mentions Sir Thomas More, a respected public figure who was well-known for his holiness and integrity. Despite his solid reputation as an honorable man and public servant, when faced with the choice between preserving his reputation and remaining loyal to God, More chose God, even at the cost of losing everything, including his life. His example illustrates that true treasure is found in God, not in worldly reputation.

Finally, Dr. Michael James discusses Father O’Malley, a fictional character from the movie Going My Way, who represents a priest unconcerned with how others perceive him. Despite being disrespected by others and not adhering to a traditional, “holy” image, Father O’Malley focused on serving God and helping others without seeking validation or recognition. He embodies the idea of letting go of social approval to serve God authentically and humbly.

Dr. James also addresses a false teaching within certain religious circles, particularly in the context of the “Divine Will” movement, where some people claim that abstaining from marital relations is a sign of holiness. The speaker warns against this heresy, asserting that sex within marriage is a gift from God and part of the vocation to which many are called. Attempts to attain holiness through false means—such as denying one’s natural marital desires—can harm marriages and distort God’s intentions.

This presentation concludes by emphasizing that individuals should trust God and not rely on social approval or strive to create a false image of holiness. It is okay to be imperfect, silly, or broken, and individuals should focus on their authentic relationship with God rather than seeking approval from others. The speaker encourages the audience to let go of the need for social recognition within religious circles and to embrace the true treasures that God offers—spiritual union with Him, peace, and fulfillment. The message is that one’s identity and worth are rooted in God’s love, not in the validation of others.

In the final reflection, Dr. Michael James urges listeners to release the “little holy treasure” of social status that they may have been clinging to, recognizing that true peace and spiritual fulfillment come from trusting in God’s plan and letting go of the need to impress others.