The saints were all very diligent in guarding the purity of their souls since they so often found it necessary to receive the Bread of Angels. They were always well aware of their own sinfulness. Their disposition was always like that of the publican who prayed: "O God, be merciful to me a sinner."
Most of the great saints went to confession every single day. Saint Teresa of the Child Jesus would not even think of receiving communion if she was conscious of even a single venial sin. Saint Thomas Aquinas, Saint Frances de Sales, Saint Ignatius, and many others went to confession each day before celebrating the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
"Let everyone first examine himself, and then eat of that Bread and drink of that Chalice; because he who eats and drinks unworthily, eats and drinks unto his own condemnation" (1 Cor. 11:28-29).
It was natural for the saints to daily examine themselves, to repent, and to ask God's pardon. The more we strive to conform our lives to Christ, the more fruit we will derive from our frequent communions. The Sacrament of Penance is an excellent way to maintain similarity between one's soul and that of Jesus Himself.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
No comments:
Post a Comment