The devil has permission to tempt the children of men. He knows he has little time, and so he goes about like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. He watches to the end in the hope that he may one day see you fall into mortal sin and so into hell. He strains every nerve by day and by night to tax your patience, to discourage you and at last to drag you into the abyss.
In the pursuit of his infamous trade he has gained the experience of centuries; he knows your weaknesses, your past sins, your present faults, and he uses all his hellish arts and the fury of his own damnation to effect a breach in your soul. Christ Himself was tempted by Satan, but over Him he had no power whatsoever. Why should we be surprised that Satan should direct his rage against those whom Christ has left on earth, especially against His priests, who continue His work?
The devil will tempt you with desire for gain. He will induce you to accumulate worldly goods. You are tempted by the devil of pride. You are tempted by the demon of pleasure. We must watch over ourselves. The Lord your God shall you adore and Him only shall you serve. We must work out our salvation with fear and trembling. We may be standing now, but we must pray and watch lest we fall.
Accept the battle with bravery and confidence. Our guardian angel is beside us on this dangerous journey, and if we call upon him, he will defend us in the hour of danger. The Immaculate Virgin will cover us with her mother’s cloak and under her virgin foot she will crush for us the head of the serpent. If we pray fervently to Christ He will lead us safely through all dangers. If God is with you, who shall be against you?
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Jeffery A. Fasching
Prayers at the Foot of the Altar
No comments:
Post a Comment