Preparation for Pentecost

“And I send the promise of My Father upon you; but stay you in the city, till you be endued with power from on high” (Luke 24, 49).

First Prelude: In spirit enter the Supper Room and see the disciples in company with the Blessed Mother of God preparing for the coming of the Holy Ghost.

Second Prelude: O Holy Spirit, replenish my heart, with an ardent desire for Thy gifts, and give me grace to use well the time of preparation for Thy coming.

FIRST POINT

JESUS COMMANDS THE APOSTLES TO REMAIN IN JERUSALEM

According to the express injunction of their Master, the Apostles were to remain in Jerusalem and there await the coming of the Holy Ghost. If God contemplates especial graces for His own, He usually demands a corresponding preparation. Thus it was with the wonderful rain of Manna, when He said to the people through Moses: “Sanctify yourselves for tomorrow you shall behold the glory of the Lord.” The whole world had to be prepared for the advent of the Messiah for thousands of years, that their waiting might increase their faith and intensify their desire. The Apostles were very much in need of an ardent desire for the gifts of the Holy Ghost, and in order to excite it in their hearts they were to prepare for His coming by fervent prayer. They must, indeed, have been convinced of their great need of divine assistance. How hopeless, seemingly, was the prospect before them, as they slowly came down from Olivet! How cowardly had they been during the passion of Christ, and how must fear have overpowered them now after the death of their Master, since they concealed themselves behind bolted doors! And these Apostles, so intimidated, and in many respects wholly ignorant, should go as lambs among wolves to preach the gospel to the whole world. Must not the utter insufficiency have impelled them to cry to heaven for supernatural courage and strength? Surely, they must now have recalled the words of their Master: “Your Father from heaven will give the good Spirit to them that ask Him” (Luke 11, 13).

We, too, are sorely in need of divine grace, for we lack courage in times of sufferings and temptations, and are so easily repulsed by difficulties met with in the observance of our Holy Rule and in the discharge of our duties. Oh, let us then remain in Jerusalem, that is, in retirement; let us close the doors of our heart, lest our spiritual enemy hinder our preparation for the feast of Pentecost, and full of eager longing let us await the advent of the Holy Ghost.

Am I convinced that graces of Pentecost will be imparted to me in the measure of my generosity in self-surrender and holy recollection?

SECOND POINT

WHAT WE MUST DO TO QUALIFY OURSELVES FOR THE RECEPTION OF THE GRACES OF THE HOLY GHOST

Jesus had promised the Holy Ghost not to the Apostles alone, but to His Church, to every individual member who co-operates with His sacred designs, and submits to His loving inspirations. True, indeed, the Holy Spirit no longer appears visibly as He did on the feast of Pentecost, in the form of fiery tongues, or as at the Jordan, in the form of a dove, but invisibly He daily, even hourly, visits our souls. He comes to convert sinners, to enlighten the just and to urge them with a sweet violence to strive for perfection. The Holy Ghost, in truth, incites souls to extraordinary works of penance and charity. Was it not the Holy Ghost Who taught us to recognize the beauties of religious life, of perpetual virginity? Was it not His grace that drew us irresistibly away from the dangers of the world, into the house of God? At certain times, however, the Church exhorts us to quicken our zeal and reanimate our fervor, that we may draw upon our soul a fuller measure of graces. This is especially true of the days preceding the feast of Pentecost. We will, therefore, prepare ourselves for the marvels of grace which the Holy Ghost even in our day works in countless souls.

We must seek encouragement in the thought that so many children of Mother Church, especially so many religious, unite with us in imploring this best of all gifts. May not our culpable negligence deprive us of the wonderful effects of His bountiful gift.

Which faults must I avoid, which virtues practice that my heart may be worthy to receive the graces of the Holy Ghost?

Affections: O my God, with Thy grace I recognize my utter spiritual misery, as well as my inability to relieve it. Thou alone canst regenerate and transform the barren and unfruitful soil of my heart,—Thou alone canst cause it to yield fruits of perfection. As Thou didst effect such marvels of grace in Thy Apostles only after a careful preparation, so dost Thou demand of me purity of heart, penance, detachment from creatures, before Thou wouldst overwhelm me with Thy bountiful gifts. O Divine Spirit, Who effectest in us both to will and to accomplish good, teach me how to prepare for the blessed days of grace and mercy. Come, Thou Light of hearts, Thou Teacher of the humble, Thou Father of the poor, and manifest Thy love and power in us!

Resolution: I will often implore the Holy Ghost to enlighten me that my preparation for the feast of Pentecost may be most pleasing to Him and most beneficial to me.

Spiritual Bouquet: “Your Father in heaven will give the Good Spirit to those that ask Him for it.”

Prayer: Our Father. . .

The Apostles Return to Jerusalem

“And they adoring went into Jerusalem with great joy” (Luke 24, 52).

First Prelude: Picture the Apostles after the Ascension of their beloved Master leaving Mount Olivet in obedience to the angels’ bidding.

Second Prelude: Replenish my heart, O Jesus, through faith, hope and charity with holy joy, that I may find the practice of virtue easy and agreeable.

First Point

THE JOY OF THE DISCIPLES

Holy Scripture relates of the Apostles: that they “went into Jerusalem with great joy.” Fortified in their faith by witnessing the Ascension of their Master, they adored Him seated on the throne of His glory and rejoiced that now He reigns forever in the kingdom of His Father. They rejoiced, too, in the hope of a reunion with Him in never-ending bliss. Had not they received His blessing, and with it the assurance that their labors should prosper under His assistance? Besides, He had promised to prepare a place for them in heaven. It was this assurance that filled their hearts with jubilation at the mere remembrance of His glory. Let us share the joy of the Apostles, for He Who ascended to heaven is also our Lord and Master. In us, too, the ascension of our Lord should produce similar effects. It should elevate our mind to our Saviour, direct our desires heavenward and unite us most intimately with Jesus, the source of all love and bliss.

The children of the world rejoice in vain, perishable, even harmful goods. Spiritual joy, however, alone can fully satisfy our yearning, emanating as it does from an inexhaustible source, and having for its object eternal goods,—God and our salvation. Such joy is a gift of the Holy Spirit, and a foretaste of heavenly delights. It is the property of all faithful souls, the fruit of justice. Let us, therefore, strive to have a share in so precious a gift, by scrupulously avoiding the least sin and fulfilling our Holy Rule with the utmost fidelity.

What may be the cause why I frequently lack spiritual joy? Do I, perhaps, like the children of the world, seek pleasure in temporal things?

Second Point

THE APOSTLES OBEY THE INJUNCTION OF THE ANGELS

Well may the disciples have prostrated themselves in adoration, and reverently kissed the footprints which their Master in His infinite love had left behind. Gladly would they have lingered longer on the spot so dear to them, but they recognized in the angels the messengers of their Master, Who manifested His will through them. Accordingly they obeyed promptly and complying with the Master’s bidding returned to Jerusalem to await the coming of the Paraclete. Let us follow their example and go cheerfully whither our superiors, our visible guardian angels, bid us go. Should we be compelled to leave a place that afforded us many spiritual consolations, and relinquish practices that seemed very helpful to us, let us be convinced that nothing can be more beneficial for us than to fulfill the holy Will of God, manifested to us through obedience. Having fortified ourselves by earnest prayer and received the blessing of our beloved Master, we will courageously walk in the footprints of our Beloved, which He has left us as a sure guide to our heavenly home. We recognize them exactly in our holy Rule and in the constitutions, which invite us to the imitation of our Blessed Lord. Let us entreat Jesus to fill our hearts with His holy love, that we may generously walk in the way of the commandments and the evangelical counsels, and quicken our pace the nearer we approach to our sublime goal.

Do I frequently consider that the acts of love and renunciation, of humility and submission, enjoined upon me by my Holy Rule are so many rungs on the ladder to heaven? Should I find any duty repugnant, if I were truly imbued with the love of Jesus?

Affections: O my Jesus, Thou hast said to Thy Apostles: “If you loved Me, you would indeed be glad, because I go to the Father: for the Father is greater than I” (John 14, 28). Oh, grant me this love, which shall also be the source of my joy. Let me follow Thy footsteps, my beloved Bridegroom, by pondering Thy mysteries, taking Thy lessons well to heart, and keeping constantly before me the example of Thy virtues. Let me strive for the happiness of union with Thee by the perfect accomplishment of Thy Divine Will. But I stand in need of the Holy Spirit, Whom Thou, O Jesus, didst promise to the Apostles. I will surrender myself completely to His divine guidance, will place no obstacles to His operations, and beg Him to break the last bonds that still rivet my heart to earth.

Resolution: I will testify my love to Jesus by faithfully and cheerfully complying with every injunction of our Holy Rule.

Spiritual Bouquet: “If you love Me, you would rejoice that I go to the Father.”

Prayer: Soul of Christ…

Meditation For Ascension Day

“And when He had said these things, while they looked on, He was raised up; and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they were beholding Him going up to heaven, behold two men stood by them in white garments, who also said: ‘Ye men of Galilee, why stand you looking up to heaven? This Jesus Who is taken from you into heaven shall so come, as you have seen Him going into heaven’” (Acts 1, 9-11).

First Prelude: In spirit join the Apostles and disciples and the Blessed Virgin on Mount Olivet to contemplate the King of Glory about to enter His kingdom.

Second Prelude: O my beloved Saviour, grant me grace to follow Thee in spirit by my intense desire and the most ardent love.

The Triumphal Entry of Jesus into His Heavenly Kingdom

Resplendent with celestial light, the Saviour ascends to heaven, as King of eternal glory, to take possession of His kingdom. What a consoling and joyous aspect was it not for the Apostles, for His Blessed Mother and all the friends of Jesus! How great must have been their desire to accompany their Divine Master on His triumphal ascent! Happier than they were the countless hosts of the Old Law, who being now released from their weary captivity, were permitted with Him to enter the heavenly Jerusalem, to dwell with Him in the Eternal Mansions. Hosts of angels are flocking earthward, eager to hail their King, Who now returns to take possession of His Kingdom. Watch the grand procession, as it moves onward to the eternal gates. Join in the sounds of praise and congratulations on every side, and rejoice in the brilliant triumph of our Lord and Saviour, Who has redeemed us with His Precious Blood, and opened for us, too, the portals of heaven. In truth, Jesus could now present to the heavenly Father, as trophies of His victory, the countless souls that He had snatched from the clutches of Satan. “I have glorified Thee on earth, I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do. And now glorify Thou Me, O Father, with Thyself, with the glory which I had, before the world was, with Thee. I have manifested Thy name to the men whom Thou hast given Me out of the world. Thine they were, and to Me Thou gavest them; and they have kept Thy word” (John 17, 4-6).

Let us behold our Blessed Saviour enthroned at the right hand of the Father, while the hosts of blessed spirits tender Him due homage and adoration. Now He can reward His elect according to their merits, with the places forfeited by Lucifer and his proud adherents. Prostrate in adoration at the feet of the Divine Conqueror, let us offer Him our felicitations and beg Him to disengage our hearts from all earthly affections to draw us after Him, that, in the words of Holy Church, we may even now “spiritually dwell in heavenly places.”

How easy and bearable should all hardships and sufferings appear if I would more frequently raise my mind and heart to heaven to say with the Apostle: “But our conversation is in heaven” (Phil. 3, 20).

The Apostles and Disciples of the Lord

The disciples lovingly gazed after their Divine Master till a light cloud enveloped Him, the joy of their hearts, and the source of all consolation. Long after the cloud had disappeared, and all trace of Him had gone, they remained motionless, still gazing after Him. Suddenly two men in white garments stood by them and said: “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye looking up to heaven?” It was as if they would remind the Apostles not to remain in contemplation, but to go forth to prepare themselves for the work entrusted to them. Apostles should announce the glad tidings of the gospel to the whole world. It will not suffice merely to raise our eyes heavenward with intense desire, but we must labor and struggle, for the “Kingdom of heaven suffers violence and only the violent shall bear it away” (Matt. 11, 11-12).

We, too, must profit by this sound advice. We must turn away our eyes from the vanities of the world, and look up to heaven, our eternal home. This alone, however, will not suffice. We must keep on the narrow path of the evangelical counsels, advancing from virtue to virtue, by removing all the obstacles that place themselves between God and our soul and obscure the light of grace. Our evil inclinations are, as it were, clouds that hinder us from perceiving the divine presence. How often has not a cloudlet of vanity, of sensitiveness, of dissipation and idleness withdrawn our Divine Master from view, thus frustrating the work of His grace! If we consider the happiness to which we have been called, should we not despise the deceitful pleasures which self-love, vanity, sensual gratification, and the use of temporal goods afford? Let us cry out with St. Ignatius: “Oh, how contemptible does earth appear when I contemplate heaven!”

Am I convinced that I must become a saint, if I wish to join my Saviour in heaven, and that I can become a saint only through mortification and self-denial?

Affections: O my Jesus, all power and glory is Thine own! Thou hast achieved it by suffering, happily now over. Thou hast today entered into eternal glory, opened heaven for us, and prepared a place for me in Thy Kingdom. Should such a hope not be mighty enough to elevate my thoughts and desires to Thee incessantly? Draw me after Thee, O my Beloved, disengage me from earthly ties, which rivet me to creatures, and impress deeply on my heart a burning desire for heaven. But, O my King, before beholding Thee in Thy glory, I must merit this happiness by love, by sufferings, and by self-restraint. Give me the grace to follow Thee, that for me, too, the day will dawn when I shall be made worthy to join in the canticle of all the heavenly hosts: “Sing ye to God, ye kingdoms of the earth; sing ye to the Lord: sing ye to God Who mounteth above the heaven of heavens to the east. Alleluia!” (Ps. 67).

Resolution: We will renounce every worldly inclination, and constantly direct our thoughts and desires heavenwards.

Spiritual Bouquet: “I am going to prepare a place for you.”

Prayer of the Church: O powerful Lord, Who hast this day ascended victoriously above all heaven leave us not as poor orphans, but send us from the Father the Spirit of Truth, Whom Thou hast promised, Alleluia! Our Father . . .

Jesus Leads His Disciples Out Towards the Mount of Olives

“And He led them out as far as Bethania; and lifting up His hands, He blessed them” (Luke 24, 50).

First Prelude: Picture the disciples on their way to the Mount of Olives, Jesus in their midst. Kneel with the friends of our Divine Lord to receive His parting benediction.

Second Prelude: O my Lord and Saviour, from Thy Tabernacle frequently impart Thy divine blessing to me that I may become truly humble, obedient, and mortified.

First Point

Jesus Led His Disciples Out As Far As Bethany

Not without reason does the evangelist tell us that Jesus led His disciples by way of Bethania out toward Olivet, whence He ascended into heaven. Bethania means “house of obedience” and it seems that Jesus willed to intimate that we must walk the path of obedience if we would be sure of reaching heaven. For the same reason many choose the religious state, which teaches us to follow closely in the footsteps of our Divine Lord. In fact, is there anything more excellent either in heaven or on earth than to make the once recognized Will of God our rule of action? Nothing is more sanctifying than such obedience. It guides the blind, confirms the wavering, and subjugates the haughty, will. It comprises all the virtues: humility, self-denial, patience, faith, hope, and charity. Obedience causes all uneasiness concerning the past to vanish, for He in Whose name we obey could not have deceived us, and what was done in obedience was done well.

How happy are obedient souls in their present duty? Are they not doing the holy Will of God, than which nothing more consoling can be imagined? As regards the future, they are likewise without concern, for in the accomplishment of the Divine Will they will always enjoy security and peace. O happy life, O blessed death, following upon such a life! Should we not rejoice and thank God that we, too, may dwell in Bethania, the house of obedience? At the same time we must strive to render ourselves worthy of such a privilege by the exercise of a simple, humble obedience. Should submission ever seem an unbearable yoke, let us consider that even though nature shrinks from a life of obedience, it will be sweet to die as an obedient religious.

Is my obedience so perfect that I may hope to find in it the straight and direct road to heaven?

Second Point

Jesus Willed to Ascend to Heaven from the Mount of Olives

Olivet possessed a sacred charm for our Divine Saviour. It had been for Him the scene of deepest degradation, of intense agony, and of the most painful sufferings. There he had prayed so often, fought so many spiritual combats for our salvation; now, however, Olivet should become for Him the scene of supreme glory, of the most perfect bliss, and of the sweetest consolation. How must Peter, James, and John, witnesses of His agony in the Garden, have marvelled at the transformation! Picture this scene very vividly, reverently contemplating your Divine Saviour standing on the mountain brow. Inexpressible mildness and serenity, combined with divine majesty and dignity, grace His whole appearance. All eyes are reverently fixed upon Him. Once more His loved ones are permitted to behold His Sacred Wounds, those blessed signs of our redemption. Lifting up His adorable hands, He imparts to all His last blessing. What a plenitude of graces and heavenly gifts was imparted to them with this blessing!

How happy should we consider ourselves to have been blessed by Jesus in that solemn moment! But how often does not the same Divine Saviour in the adorable Sacrament of the Altar impart His efficacious blessing. As the Apostles received strength and encouragement for their apostolic labors in this divine blessing, so we, too, shall experience the life-giving effects of God’s benediction in the works of our sublime calling. Let us never lose sight of the fact that we, too, like Jesus, must enter into everlasting bliss by the way of struggles, of sacrifices, and of sufferings. Let us therefore rejoice in the contempt, in the degradation, in the sufferings and tribulations that fall to our lot in this life. The greater they are, the greater will be our everlasting reward.

Do I frequently ponder the words of Holy Scripture (Acts 14:21) that we must enter the kingdom of God through many tribulations?

Affections: O my beloved Jesus, let me bear in mind that the eternal glory of Thy Sacred Humanity is the reward of Thy obedience unto the death of the cross. I will follow in Thy footsteps. O Jesus, in the path of poverty, of humility, of obedience, of mortification and love of the cross, that I may be with Thee in the eternal mansions, where Thou hast prepared a place for each of Thy faithful disciples. Animated with sentiments of love and devotion, we accompany Thee, O Jesus, to the holy mountain where Thou dost bless Thy holy Mother and Thy beloved disciples for the last time before ascending to Thy Father. In spirit kneeling at Thy feet, we pray Thee for Thy blessing that it may tear all earthly ties asunder and fill us with a loathing of the false, fleeting, worldly pleasures. May it be for us the pledge of that eternal benediction which Thou wilt bestow on Thy elect on the Last Day.

Resolution: I will often beg my Saviour for His divine blessing, that it may guide and strengthen me for the faithful discharge of the duties enjoined upon me by obedience.

Spiritual Bouquet: “And lifting up His hands, He blessed them.”

Prayer: Soul of Christ . . .

Jesus Appears To His Apostles For the Last Time Before His Ascension

Jesus Appears to His Apostles for the Last Time Before His Ascension

“They therefore who were come together asked Him, saying: ‘Lord, wilt Thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?’ But He said to them: ‘It is not for you to know the times or moments, which the Father hath put in His own power’” (Acts. 1, 6-7).

First Prelude: Picture Christ’s last apparition before His ascension, and listen respectfully to His loving counsels.

Second Prelude: Give me the grace, O Jesus, to renounce all unnecessary solicitude and to direct my desires toward thee.

First Point

The Question of the Apostles

Jesus had assembled the Apostles for the last time, once more to console and counsel them before going to His Father. He promised them the Holy Ghost and the gift of miracles for the worthy discharge of their sublime mission. But despite the many miracles they had already witnessed, and the countless favors the risen Saviour had so lavishly expended on them, they were still earthly-minded, thinking only of temporal power and of distinction, and longing to share in it. Accordingly, they asked Jesus: “Lord, wilt Thou at this time restore again the kingdom of Israel?” Undoubtedly, such a question, savoring as it did of worldly sentiments, must have grieved our Divine Saviour. Had He not unceasingly imparted to His disciples the most excellent lessons, and instructed them particularly by His holy example? Had He not recently sent them out to conquer souls, whom they should disengage from earthly attachments, by instilling into their hearts love of poverty, of renunciation, of meekness, and of humility, at the cost of untold sacrifices and hardships? These souls they should unite into a spiritual empire but, alas, how little had they understood Him! The Holy Ghost had first to transform them completely, and render them truly spiritual, worthy followers of their Divine Master.

We have received the same Holy Spirit; no low or mean sentiment should, therefore, be tolerated! Only the one care should claim our attention, more and more to establish and confirm the kingdom of God in our hearts. But how rarely are perfect renunciation and detachment from all earthly things, and the corresponding earnest striving for heavenly goods, even at a dear cost, found even among religious! Many lead a wholly natural life, yield to sensitiveness under reprimands, covet praise and esteem, love and seek personal comfort and convenience, in short, whatever flatters self-love. The Holy Ghost cannot penetrate such hearts, because their many voluntary faults and habitual distractions constitute a formidable barrier to divine grace. Thus their hearts, created for God alone, slavishly cling to earth.

Have I not made similar experiences in my life? Shall it not be my earnest endeavor to make my heart receptive for the graces of the Holy Ghost, by fervent prayer and mortification?

Second Point

The Answer of Jesus

In answer to their question, our Blessed Lord said to the Apostles: “It is not for you to know either the time or the hour that the Father hath ordained in His power.” Jesus does not will His disciples to concern themselves with future events, but rather, to devote all their energy and zeal to their present duties. The Most High has reserved to Himself the disposition of our affairs, in every detail. We must submit to His Providence, fulfill His holy Will and seek to utilize for our salvation whatever by divine dispensation may befall us. Do we not often succumb to the temptation of occupying ourselves unnecessarily with the past or even with the future, at the same time forgetting the all-important duties of the present, which demand our utmost attention? This temptation is a dangerous rock which has caused the shipwreck of many a pious soul, a carefully concealed snare, which our enemy, in his cunning, spreads for us. What harm has he accordingly done! Splendid opportunities to practice virtue and to acquire merit for heaven are lost sight of to give place to idle worries concerning the past, and to futile wishes for the future. How happy they who have acquired the facility of utilizing the present moment and faithfully discharging every duty! God’s abundant grace shall not be lacking them.

Have I not also sacrificed peace of soul to useless worries concerning the past or the future? Oh, that I would at last be convinced that the faithful discharge of my present duties is the surest pledge of divine assistance for the future.

Affections: O Eternal Light, send a ray from the heights of heaven to penetrate the innermost recesses of my heart! Give me strength and grace to throw off all unnecessary anxiety and cares, and let me not tend toward sensual, earthly things. How great, how faithful art Thou in Thy promises! O my Jesus, replenish my mind with the sublime truths of faith, penetrate my heart with love of virtue, which Thou so much desirest to see in me, that I may continually walk in Thy presence, and generously renounce whatever is opposed to the efficacy of divine grace in my soul. Impart to me the zeal and fortitude which the Holy Ghost infused into the hearts of the Apostles, by which He effected their complete transformation, that instructed through Him, and replenished with His graces, I may be Thy true disciple.

Resolution: I will banish all unnecessary cares and solicitude, and think only of discharging faithfully and conscientiously the duties of the present day.

Spiritual Bouquet: “Cast all your cares upon the Lord.”

Prayer: Jesus, my Lord, my King . . .

Meditation for Monday 0f Prayer

“And I say to you, Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and you shall find; knock and it shall be opened to you” (Luke 11, 9).

First Prelude: In spirit place yourself among the disciples, and listen reverently to our Blessed Saviour’s consoling promise.

Second Prelude: Grant me grace, O my Jesus, always to appear before Thee with humility and reverence, and to pray with fervor and perseverance.

First Point

Jesus wills us to persevere in fervent prayer

How fittingly Holy Church chooses for these days the gospel narrative of a friend who, coming to his friend at night, by his incessant entreaties, at last obtained relief.

What an admirable picture of the power of prayer, which even triumphs over the Will of God! Men often become irritated on being urged, but God, on the contrary, is pleased with our perseverance. It would seem that we never cause Him more joy than when we use a holy violence, as did the patriarch of old: “And he said to him: ‘Let me go, for it is break of day.’” “He answered: ‘I will not let thee go except thou bless me’” (Moses 32, 26). Our loving Mother, Holy Church, teaches us to persevere in prayer by directing us to repeat the same petitions frequently as we do in the litanies. How repeatedly do we say: “We beseech Thee, hear us!” We will endeavor, in union with all fervent Christians, to make these days truly days of pious prayer, since, as religious, we are under an especial obligation to draw down upon the earth the blessings of heaven by our fervent supplications. The pauper does not tire of begging for alms. Mindful of our misery and helplessness, we must likewise entreat God with all the ardor of our soul. Let us beg the Holy Ghost for the fire of love, for an intense desire, that it may bear our heart, as it were, on wings, heavenward.

What reproaches do I deserve for my lack of fervor and perseverance in prayer?

Second Point

We should pray with reverence and humility

Is it not written in Holy Scripture (Ecclus. 35, 21) that the prayer of him that humbleth himself shall pierce the clouds? If we appear before God penetrated with our utter misery, and represent to Him our pitiful condition; if we say to Him as a pauper to a rich man: Lord, behold my indigence; I hunger and thirst for Thy graces, I am despoiled of virtue and all that is good, God will not turn a deaf ear, but in His loving mercy will come to our assistance. Does He not manifest an especial tenderness for the poor, who, realizing their dependence and helplessness, cry to Him from the depths of their heart? Do we, furthermore, consider to whom we address ourselves when we pray? We speak to God, Whose powerful voice makes the pillars of heaven tremble, before Whom even the seraphim in reverence veil their faces. Must not we poor mortals be penetrated with profoundest respect for Him Whom all the heavens humbly adore? At the same time, are we not imploring an offended God, Whom we have greatly dishonored by sin? Would we obtain pardon for our sins, then like the publican, who was justified because of his great humility, we must humble ourselves. The saints, though they enjoyed God’s especial favor, profoundly abased themselves. “Dare I speak to my Lord whereas I am dust and ashes?” said the holy patriarch Abraham (Moses 18, 27). “Who art Thou, O Lord, and who am I that I dare appear before Thee?” cried St. Francis of Assisi. And we, poor sinners, often act as though God Almighty were indebted to us. Let us then present our petitions to Him with profound humility and respect that we may be heard. Do I pray with outward reverence and inward fervor? Are my sentiments those of the truly humble and lowly of heart? This disposition is the surest pledge of God’s special favor.

Affections: O Divine Saviour, Who in infinite love didst pass days and nights in prayer to Thy heavenly Father for me and for all mankind, grant me the spirit of prayer. Thou knowest how much I stand in need of it, and that of myself I can never attain it. I realize, my dearest Lord, that I have frequently been guilty of tepidity, of distractions, of irreverence in prayer, that I frequently yield to mistrust and repugnance, which rob my prayers of all fruit. O my Saviour, be Thou moved at sight of my misery, have compassion with my weakness. In Thy infinite mercy, imbue me with a great desire for Thy divine assistance, and an humble and enduring confidence in Thy infinite goodness. Excite in all hearts a holy fervor that our united prayers may draw down abundant graces upon ourselves and the whole Church, during this holy season.

Resolution: I will pray with great interior fervor and outward respect.

Spiritual Bouquet: “The prayer of the just man shall pierce the clouds.”

Prayer: Our Father…

Motives For Confidence In Prayer

“And in that day you shall not ask Me anything, Amen, amen I say to you: If you ask the Father anything in My name, He will give it to you” (John 16, 23).

First Prelude: Behold Jesus exhorting His disciples to persevere in prayer.

Second Prelude: O Jesus, increase my faith and my confidence in prayer, that I may experience the truth of Thy promises.

FIRST POINT

CHRIST’S CONSOLING PROMISES CONCERNING PRAYER

During these days, Holy Church exhorts her children to pray by reminding them of Christ’s consoling promise: “Amen, amen, I say to you: if you ask the Father anything in My name, He will give it you.” Could Jesus have urged us more effectually than by solemnly assuring us that our prayers will be heard? He, the Son of God, knew full well the goodness of His heavenly Father toward us poor creatures. We believe this truth, and yet our confidence is so weak. If we do not doubt the promise of a friend, how can it be possible for us to lack confidence in the tenderest of all Fathers! “He hath,” says St. Augustine, “set mercy as guard at the portals of His palace, to receive all who come, and to call those who hesitate.” “Hitherto you have not asked anything in My name,” says our Lord. “Ask and you shall receive, knock and it shall be opened unto you.” The angels of God are ever waiting to minister unto us, to receive and support our petitions. God requires of us but one thing, namely, confidence, as is but meet in virtue of His infinite perfections. Without it, our prayers will be ineffectual.

How forcibly did not our Blessed Lord encourage the sick, who implored their cure, to have confidence! Complying with this injunction, let us address ourselves with the utmost confidence to our most benign and loving Father, Whose greatest joy it is to dispense the best gifts to His children. Mindful of the words: “If you ask the Father anything in My name, He will give it to you,” let us ask during these days of prayer, for preservation and deliverance from all evils of body and soul, and for everything that is necessary and conducive to our happiness for time and for eternity. What a powerful incentive to persevering confidence in this truth!

SECOND POINT

WE SHOULD PRAY IN THE NAME OF JESUS

Our lack of confidence in prayer originates in our utter spiritual destitution. We behold in ourselves naught but sinfulness and weakness. Have we considered that Jesus includes all in His promises, and in His infinite mercy and love assures all who pray in His name: “If you ask the Father anything in My name, He will give it to you.” Jesus would say, in other words, that the efficacy of our prayers is determined not only by the divine promise, but still more by His infinite merits, which the heavenly Father Himself regards as our possession. How could we, therefore, fear not being heard? To pray in the name of Jesus, means, further, to approach the heavenly Father, commissioned by Jesus, to ask for that which He has merited for us by His bitter passion and death, namely, such favors as will secure our eternal salvation. We must pray for that virtue which is most necessary for us; for forgiveness of our sins, for strength in temptation, for the grace to render our life fruitful for the salvation of souls; for the grace of perseverance, for heaven, for God Himself and His everlasting possession. These spiritual goods alone can make us truly happy, and, according to the words of our Blessed Saviour, our joy, perfect. Let us strive, in accordance with the admonition of the Apostle, above all for the gift of prayer; for all good things will come to us through prayer.

Do I always pray in the name of Jesus? Am I deserving of the reproach that I have never asked for anything with real fervor in His name?

Affections: O most loving Jesus, I thank Thee with my whole heart for having promised us, in Thy infinite love, that the Father will give us whatever we ask in Thy name! What infinite love! What divine generosity! My God, my most loving Father, so ardently desires my salvation that He obliges Himself to give me in answer to my petitions whatever may be conducive thereto.

Knowing this, could I ever suffer doubt and mistrust to arise in my heart? O my God, I believe firmly all Thou hast said, and confide with implicit trust in Thy sacred promises. Do Thou, O my Divine Master, Thyself teach me to pray in Thy name in union with Thee, that thus my prayers may be acceptable to Thy heavenly Father, and fruitful for my salvation.

Resolution: To reanimate my confidence in prayer, I will often recall the loving promise of our Divine Lord.

Spiritual Bouquet: “If you ask the Father anything in My name, He will give it to you.”

Prayer: Our Father…

Christ's Promise To Be With His Church To The End Of Time

“And behold, I am with you all days, even to the consummation of the world” (Matt. 28, 20).

First Prelude: Behold Jesus giving His Apostles the comforting assurance that He will never leave them.

Second Prelude: Grant me, O Jesus, a lively faith, that I may be ever mindful of Thy holy presence.

First Point

WHO IS HE THAT PROMISES TO REMAIN WITH US?

Our Blessed Lord had entrusted great things to His Apostles. He had commissioned them to go and teach all nations, and through baptism to receive them into the true fold. He had already promised them the gift of miracles, but added the consoling promise to remain with them until the end of time. O my soul, ponder the greatness of such a promise! Jesus did not promise to send an angel,—no, He, the Almighty, the infinite God Himself will remain with His Church, whose members we also are. Our victorious Saviour, Who has vanquished Satan, the world and death, will take us under His protection. Should not this thought be our comfort in hours of desolation, of tribulation, and of temptation? Though we are exposed to great dangers, the Lion of the tribe of Juda fights for us and protects us. Should not His presence incite us to fulfill courageously and zealously the commission He has entrusted to us? Jesus is with us, observes our every step, knows all our thoughts, words, and actions, weighs the sacrifices that we make in His service, and rejoices in our progress in perfection. What are the love and attention of the tenderest of mothers, when compared with the touching solicitude of our Blessed Saviour for us? Let us frequently renew our faith in the presence of Jesus, and be mindful of His holy gaze resting upon us incessantly, to afford us encouragement in sufferings, fortitude in time of temptations, and protection against evil.

O comforting and strengthening consciousness of the Divine Presence! What an incentive to good! If I were always mindful of the presence of Jesus, many a difficulty would vanish. Should not the frequent remembrance of His presence preserve me from transgressing the Holy Rule!

Second Point

IN WHAT MANNER DOES JESUS REMAIN WITH US?

How highly must we value sanctifying grace, which effects our spiritual regeneration and unites us most intimately with God. Through sanctifying grace, God dwells in our souls, rules them with His power and goodness, and incessantly bestows on us proofs of His infinite love. He overwhelms us with enlightening and strengthening grace, that we may do good and avoid evil. His loving Providence guides us in all the circumstances of our lives, and directs all things to our salvation. Not only is Jesus with us by His grace; He dwells in our midst under the form of bread, in the adorable Sacrament of the Altar.

Christ’s consoling promise to remain with us to the end of time had reference pre-eminently to this Mystery of His Love. In it He has become the Companion of our exile, and that none may be deprived of His presence, He dwells on countless altars at one and the same time. From the Tabernacle, as from a refuge of Mercy, He addresses to all the loving invitation; “Come to Me, all ye who labor and are heavily laden and I will refresh you” (Matt. 11, 2). Day and night He is ready to receive us and to bestow grace upon us. He remains in constant adoration before His Father, praying for us and immolating Himself for our salvation and that of the whole world.

Who enjoys the happiness of the continual presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament more abundantly than religious, dwelling, as they do, in His immediate vicinity, for the most part, under the same roof with Him! If obedience calls us from one place to another, there, too, we find Jesus, awaiting us and holding out to us all the graces that we need for the faithful discharge of our duties. What gratitude, what love, what fidelity do we owe our Divine Saviour, for His bountiful presence!

Affections: O my Saviour, Thou didst promise Thy Apostles not to leave them as orphans, but to remain with them all days, until the end of time. How gloriously hast Thou fulfilled Thy promise! It did not suffice for Thy love to remain with us through Thy grace, Thy power and Thy protection, but Thou wouldst take up Thy abode among us in Thy Sacred Humanity. Oh, how can we ever thank Thee adequately, our most generous Saviour and most loving Redeemer, for Thy unspeakable goodness and liberality. As often as it is permitted us, we will hasten to Thy Tabernacle to draw courage and strength for the works of our vocation, to unburden to Thy loving Heart our needs of body and of soul, to beg Thy divine blessing for us and those committed to our care.

Resolution: I will frequently in the course of the day, vividly recall the presence of Jesus.

Spiritual Bouquet: “Behold I am with you all days—even to the consummation of the world.”

Prayer: Jesus, my Lord, my King . . .

Jesus Possesses Supreme Power in Heaven and on Earth

“And Jesus coming, spoke to them, saying: All power is given to Me in heaven, and on earth.” (Matt. 28, 18).

First Prelude: Behold our Blessed Saviour surrounded by His Apostles to whom He addresses the above mentioned words.

Second Prelude: O my Saviour, Who wouldst have me submit my understanding and heart perfectly to Thy benign power, grant me the grace to overcome all that would hinder Thy reign in my heart.

First Point

Christ’s Supreme Power in Heaven and on Earth

Not only as God, but also as Man, Christ holds supreme power in heaven and on earth. He merited it in His Humanity by His passion and death, as the Apostle expresses it: “He humbled Himself, becoming obedient unto death, even to the death of the cross. For which cause God also hath exalted Him, and hath given Him a name which is above all names; that in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those that are in heaven, on earth, and under the earth” (Ph. 2, 8-10). Accordingly, Jesus possesses absolute power over all the choirs of angels, of whose services He can avail Himself for the spread and propagation of the kingdom of God on earth.

He has unlimited power on earth, to establish His Church, to subject all nations to His sway, to convert sinners, and to sanctify souls. In His hands rests power over life and death, a power which nothing can resist. Without His permission neither the powers of earth nor those of hell can harm His faithful ones. But by no means does our amiable Lord coerce souls: He wills to rule them solely by the submission of their free will to His. Let us, therefore, surrender our hearts absolutely to our Supreme Master, Who alone can make them perfectly happy. O adorable power, sweetest violence! How well are we ordained all things for our salvation!

Do I serve Jesus with a cheerful heart, and do I submit to Him without reserve? Am I grateful to Him for having so gently drawn me away from the world into His holy service?

Second Point

Our Share in the Power of Christ through Co-operation with Grace

As our Divine Saviour in His Sacred Humanity merited supreme power in heaven and on earth by His passion and death, so may we hope to vanquish the world, the flesh, and Satan, by the mortification of our perverse nature, by the patient endurance of suffering and afflictions. We must exercise a holy violence over ourselves in order to overcome our passions and evil tendencies. Well achieved who by patient and persistent struggle have attained a victory over their passions which leaves them in the possession of unimpaired peace and happiness under the divine guidance of the Holy Spirit and His most adorable Will.

By such mastery of self, souls possess imperturbable peace through the joy of a good conscience, and exercise great power over the Heart of God, to Whom they are very dear, and Who rejoices in the struggles as well as in the triumphs of His faithful children. God cannot resist their prayers and entreaties, and hence, they draw His graces down upon themselves and others, in fullest measure. By virtue of self-denial and good example they readily gain access to the heart of their neighbor, according to the maxim, “Example is more powerful than precept.” In this manner they spread the kingdom of Jesus Christ on earth, and labor efficaciously for the propagation of His divine power and omnipotence. For this purpose we have been called to the religious state. We must, however, bear in mind that God will bless our labors only in so far as we exert violence and advance in perfection. Only then shall we be allowed to participate in Christ’s benign reign, and, in virtue of our generosity and unbounded trust, to exercise power even over the Heart of Christ.

Affections:

O my Jesus, I rejoice in the power and glory Thou didst achieve through Thy bitter passion and death. I adore Thee, almighty King of heaven and earth, and thank Thee for subjecting my heart to Thee by the sweet power of Thy mercy. Rule my heart, O Jesus, as its sole Master, possess it as Thy conquest. I will belong to Thee alone, and consecrate myself anew to Thy service. May Thy perfect love destroy in me all self love, the power of Thy grace conquer my evil propensities and effect in me a complete transformation that, glorifying Thee, I may be truly happy.

Resolution:

I will subject my heart and will to the benign reign of Christ’s sweet Will.

Spiritual Bouquet: "I can do all things in Him Who strengtheneth me."

Prayer: Take, O Lord . . .

The Various Apparitions of Jesus After His Resurrection

“To whom also He showed Himself alive after His passion, by many proofs, for forty days appearing to them and speaking of the kingdom of God” (Acts 1, 3).

First Prelude: Behold Jesus in the midst of His Apostles assisting them in their various needs.

Second Prelude: O my Jesus, teach me how to prepare my heart that I may frequently experience Thy bountiful visitations.

FIRST POINT

REPEATED APPARITIONS OF OUR DIVINE LORD

Jesus remained on earth for forty days after His resurrection. What a time of grace for the Apostles, to whom He often appeared, partly to console and instruct them, partly to help them in their perplexities, to encourage and fortify them by marks of divine affection and favor! Thus Jesus willed to confirm their faith in His resurrection, and render their separation from Him more bearable. Likewise, our Blessed Lord manifests Himself to devout souls by His grace and divine consolations. This is especially the case in Holy Communion, when He reveals Himself unmistakably as the living Bread that came down from heaven, to nourish our souls! With a sweet violence Jesus attracts devout souls who think only of Him, rejoice in Him alone, and love Him ardently. To merit such a grace, we must pray for it, guard our senses and strive to be always recollected.

We must beg our dear Saviour to prepare our soul for His divine visitations, which ordinarily yield abundant and wholesome fruits. As the Apostles were inflamed with renewed fervor and zeal, strengthened in faith and confidence by the presence of their Divine Master, so we, too, will feel the effects of the Divine Presence, impelling as powerfully to the most heroic sacrifices in promoting the salvation of souls and our own sanctification. Do I not frequently hinder the operations of divine grace by my repeated faults and especially by negligence in the custody of the senses?

SECOND POINT

JESUS OFTEN APPEARED TO HIS DISCIPLES UNEXPECTEDLY

Jesus appeared to the disciples casting their nets on Lake Genesareth; to Mary Magdalen, weeping at the grave; to the pious women, returning to Jerusalem; but, in nearly every instance, He disappeared at the very moment when they began to taste the sweet delights of His visible presence. Likewise our Lord chooses to do even now. He sometimes visits, with His graces, souls consecrated to Him, when they least expect it, and remains at a distance when they impatiently desire His presence. At times we experience the presence of God very vividly in hours of prayer and solitude; then, again, while performing the most unseemly tasks of our vocation. Almighty God would impress upon us that neither rank nor position, nor office, nor yet occupations hinder communion with Him. We may hasten the moment of His visitations by great purity of heart and an ardent desire for His grace. Let us not be too eager, however, to enjoy the consolations of Jesus Christ. We cannot attain to perfect rest and satiety in this world. “Seek true peace not on earth, but in heaven,” we read in the Imitation. True, even now we should love to possess the liberty and bliss of the children of God, but the hour has not yet come. There is still the time of combat, of labor, and of trials. Let us be content if Jesus visits us only at intervals and for a brief moment, as He did His disciples. But let us be on our guard not to close the doors on our Bridegroom by voluntary unfaithfulness. He might knock while we are buried in distractions and we would fail to hear His gentle pleading for admittance.

Do I hold myself in readiness, by a lively faith, humble confidence, and tender love, to be vouchsafed the bountiful visitations of our Blessed Lord?

Affections: O my Jesus, how amiable art Thou toward all who are truly devoted to Thee! Thou visitest them with Thy grace, Thy consolations, Thy light, and Thy strength, as best pleaseth Thee and according to their needs! How often have I, too, experienced the delights of Thy blissful presence! But oftener through my own fault I have kept Thee, the Bridegroom of my soul, aloof from me; I have hindered Thy bountiful visitations by dissipation and manifold infidelities in Thy service. O Lord, grant that it shall be so no longer. Help me to cleanse my heart of all stains, and tear it away from every affection for creatures, that Thou mayest always find it receptive for Thy grace, and prepared for Thy merciful visitations.

Resolution: I will carefully guard my heart, in order to avoid the slightest act of unfaithfulness.

Spiritual Bouquet: “I seek a pure heart; there will I dwell.”

Prayer: O Jesus, living in Mary . . .

Jesus Appears To His Disciples On A Mountain In Galilee

“And the eleven disciples went into Galilee, unto the mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And seeing Him they adored; but some doubted” (Matt. 28, 16-17).

First Prelude: Behold Jesus on the mountain in Galilee, in the midst of His Apostles and the other disciples who had come to see their beloved Master.

Second Prelude: Grant me the grace, O my Saviour, to serve Thee with humility and love, that I may be made worthy of Thy divine promises.

First Point

THE LORD IS FAITHFUL TO HIS PROMISES

At the Last Supper, Jesus had foretold His disciples that He would appear to them in Galilee. The angels at the sepulchre had reminded the disciples of Christ’s promise, by the message they entrusted to the holy women. How faithfully Jesus abides by His word, as regards time and place,—another proof of His absolute fidelity to His promises! Heaven and earth shall sooner pass away, than that Jesus shall fail to verify His word. How consoling for us, who, trusting in His glorious promises, have left all to follow Him! How often has not the remembrance of these promises renewed our courage! We will, therefore, be ever mindful in future that we are serving a faithful Lord. When the labors ordinarily connected with our religious duties become irksome or oppressive, we will revive our spirits by recalling Christ’s promise that not the slightest good deed, not even a cup of cold water given in charity, shall go unrewarded. If the recollection of our sins would make us fear and tremble at the thought of the pending judgment, let us call to mind the words of Christ: “Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy” (Matt. 5, 7), and “They that instruct many unto justice, shall shine as stars for all eternity” (Daniel 12, 3). In truth, the Lord is faithful to His promises. We will, therefore, serve Him with inviolable fidelity. But, alas, how few serve the Lord faithfully! Not infrequently the holiest promises made in moments of fervor are forgotten, and the best resolutions, violated. If even among men it is considered a disgrace to break one’s word, how much greater must be the insult offered to God by our frequent infidelities!

Have I not just cause to lament my repeated acts of unfaithfulness, and to implore God’s pardon? Which evil inclination is the chief cause of my failure to carry out my good resolutions?

Second Point

THE ZEAL OF THE DISCIPLES TO SEE THE LORD

St. Paul relates: “Then was He seen by more than five hundred brethren at once” (1 Cor. 15, 6). Jesus excludes none from His love. He appeared not only to the Apostles but willed by His presence to rejoice the hearts of all who had come thither. In imitation of our Divine Saviour, we should be charitable and kind toward all with whom we come in contact, for Christian charity must embrace the whole world. The hearts of religious, especially, be they dispensers of the corporal works of mercy or instructors of youth, must beat warmly for those in corporal or spiritual distress. They must serve all with equal fervor, cheerfully fulfilling every commission imposed by obedience. Should they entertain any preference, it must be for those whom Jesus also preferred, namely, the poor, the suffering, those in need of spiritual aid and instruction. Furthermore, let us ponder the holy zeal of the Apostles in urging the other disciples to hasten to Galilee, there to have the happiness of beholding the risen Saviour.

Am I eager to share with others the favors and blessings imparted to me by Almighty God? The Lord has dealt out such diverse talents for a wise purpose. Religious life derives its peculiar charm and merit from the circumstance of mutual participation in the prayers and good works of the members. Should it not be our earnest endeavor to lend assistance and support to one another in the striving for perfection? We should not come to our beloved Saviour alone, but in union with our fellow religious and those confided to our care, whose interests and needs we must commend to Him as fervently as if they were our own. Oh, how gladly will the Lord hear such a prayer! Do I love all with the same tender, affectionate and self-immolating love?

Affections: O my Jesus, how ardently did the disciples await the realization of Thy promises! How great was their joy in Thy presence, how profound their reverence, how ardent their gratitude! But, still I have no cause for envying their happiness. Thou dwellest continually in our midst, and we dare approach Thee, to receive Thy blessing, to beg Thee for graces as often as we choose. Oh, that I would utilize such an incomparable privilege to my advantage! O my Saviour, infuse into my heart the sentiments with which Thou didst replenish the hearts of Thy disciples. Give me a loving solicitude to please Thee in all things, constant fervor in the works of my vocation, a tender, benign and generous love for all my associates. Let us all be united by the bond of mutual charity, in union with Thee.

Resolution: For the love of God, I will generously devote my talents and abilities to the service of others.

Spiritual Bouquet: “The Lord is faithful, Who hath chosen you.”

Prayer: Take, O Lord …

Tuesday - Jesus Announces to Peter His Death by Martyrdom and Bids Him Follow in His Footsteps

“Amen, amen, I say to thee, when thou wast younger, thou didst gird thyself and didst walk whither thou wouldst. But when thou shalt be old thou shalt stretch forth thy hands and another shall gird thee and lead thee whither thou wouldst not. And this He said, signifying by what death He should glorify God. And when He said this, He saith to him: ‘Follow Me.’ Peter turning about, saw that disciple whom Jesus loved following, who also leaned on His breast at supper, and said: ‘Lord, who is he that shall betray Thee?’ Him, therefore, when Peter had seen, he saith to Jesus: ‘Lord, and what shall this man do?’”

(John 21, 18-22).

First Prelude: Hear Jesus bidding Peter follow Him and lovingly admonishing him.

Second Prelude: Grant me grace, O Jesus, to lose no time in idle curiosity and useless occupations, but to strive with all my strength to follow Thee on the path of humility and self-denial.

First Point

Jesus Foretells the Martyrdom of Peter

Peter had thrice testified his love for the Divine Saviour; still, mindful of his past fall, he was not without apprehension for the future. Our Blessed Saviour, discerning the mind of the disciple, willed to calm and quiet him. He, therefore, assured Peter of His undying love, by foretelling him that he should resemble his Saviour by the immolation of his life, yes, even by his death on the cross. An exceedingly painful death should be the reward of Peter’s fidelity. Let us take well to heart that patient carrying of our cross is the touchstone of our love of Jesus. Let us learn to esteem the cross as a mark of God’s especial love for us, and as a means wherewith to make Him some return. When Jesus said: “Thou didst gird thyself and didst walk whither thou wouldst: . . . but another shall gird thee and lead thee whither thou wouldst not,” He alluded to two kinds of crosses. We can shoulder various mortifications and penitential exercises voluntarily, as it were, girding ourselves for the love of Jesus. Who should not feel strongly impelled thereto in religious life! But at the same time, we must suffer ourselves to be girded by others, by suffering patiently and with resignation the trials, the persecutions and the sufferings ordinarily inseparable from the faithful discharge of our duties. “Follow Me,” said the Lord to Peter. Peter should constantly have before him the example of His Lord and Master, Who Himself first suffered death on the cross, that the disciple, too, might willingly bear the cross and die thereon.

Second Point

Jesus Rebukes Peter for His Curiosity

To Peter’s question: “Lord, and what shall befall this one?” our Lord made answer, “If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? Do thou follow Me.” What an important lesson for us! In community life it is not an uncommon temptation to be concerned about the affairs of others. Even among the devout there are such as busy themselves less with their own affairs and with God, than with the concerns of others, to their own spiritual detriment. Such curiosity is very culpable. It deprives us of interior recollection, of peace of heart, violates Christian charity, and not seldom engenders discord. Let us, therefore, earnestly resolve not to concern ourselves in things for which we shall not be held accountable.

Let us follow Jesus, and in all simplicity and humility of heart serve the Lord our God. If we are solicitous for our sanctification, we shall find, in our own heart, so much to correct and to set aright, that little time will remain for observing and criticizing the actions of others. Neither should we be too solicitous for our own future, but, casting all our cares upon the Lord, we should trust implicitly in His loving Providence.

Let us conscientiously use the present moments and hold ourselves in readiness faithfully to follow the voice of the Lord, Who will call us when and whither it shall please Him. How many a fault should I have avoided, how much grief spared myself, had I taken Christ’s words: “What is that to Thee?” for my guiding principle in all my relations with my neighbor, and had regulated my conduct toward my fellow religious and those committed to my care, solely by charity!

Affections:

O my Jesus, to what sanctity should I have attained had I heeded Thy admirable lessons! But, alas, instead of thinking solely of following Thee and imitating Thy example, I riveted my attention on vain, earthly things and lost countless graces by a distracted, dissipated life. O my Saviour, I realize my folly; I repent of it, and promise amendment. Constantly recollected in spirit, I will fix my attention on Thee, my sublime Ideal, will draw strength and courage from union with Thee, to carry my cross lovingly after Thee. O Jesus, assist my weakness by Thy almighty grace.

Resolution:

I will be solicitous to perform that which is entrusted to me whole-heartedly, without concerning myself in the affairs of others.

Spiritual Bouquet:

“If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? Do thou follow Me.”

Prayer:

Jesus, my Lord, my King . . .

Jesus Confers Upon Peter The Office Of Supreme Shepherd

“When therefore, they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter: ‘Simon, son of John, lovest thou Me more than these?’ He saith to Him: ‘Yea, Lord, Thou knowest that I love Thee.’ He saith to him: ‘Feed My lambs.’

He saith to him again: ‘Simon, son of John, lovest thou Me?’ He saith to Him: ‘Yea, Lord, Thou knowest that I love Thee.’ He saith to him: ‘Feed My lambs.’

He saith to him the third time: ‘Simon, son of John, lovest thou Me?’ Peter was grieved, because He had said to him the third time, ‘Lovest thou Me?’ and he said to Him: ‘Lord, Thou knowest that I love Thee.’ He said to him: ‘Feed My sheep’” (John 21, 15–17).

First Prelude: Behold Jesus, with inimitable meekness, asking Peter: “Lovest thou Me?”

Second Prelude: Impress Thy love so deeply on my heart, O Jesus, that all my actions may testify mine to Thee.

First Point

JESUS DEMANDS GREATER LOVE OF PETER

Peter was called to hold a prominent office among the Apostles. Jesus willed to commit to him the full charge of His flock; therefore He must needs demand greater love of Peter. By asking him: “Simon, lovest thou Me more than these?” Jesus permitted Peter to make a confession of his love in the presence of the other Apostles. Had Jesus asked Peter this question at an earlier day, Peter should very likely, without hesitation, have declared that he loved Him more. Had he not in the Supper Room declared that he would remain true to our Lord though all the rest should forsake Him? Sad experience had taught him to be more prudent, and, in all humility, he was careful not to set himself above the other disciples. He, therefore, answered not, “Yes, Lord, I love Thee more than these,” but merely “Yes, Lord, Thou knowest that I love Thee!” We, too, by virtue of our holy vocation, must aspire to great perfection, great sanctity and love. God’s goodness has called us to a congregation devoted to the spiritual and corporal works of mercy. Does our love in reality harmonize with the sanctity of our state of life? Does not Jesus often demand a confession of our love in the presence of our fellow-religious or our charges, if not in words, at least in the many occasions He furnishes us for sacrifice? He seems to say: Lovest thou Me? Then carry the cross of community life in all its details. Lovest thou Me? Then shoulder the hardships ordinarily inseparable from the care of the sick and the instruction of youth. Lovest thou Me? Then be obedient, humble, meek and gentle. Lovest thou Me? Then observe the rule of silence, be recollected and zealous in prayer and meditation.

What do I most frequently answer Jesus by my actions? Dare I presume to love Him more than others, who have not received so many graces? How deplorable were it not, if to our Lord’s question: “Lovest thou Me?” I should be obliged to answer: Lord, Thou knowest that I love myself, my comfort and convenience, that I seek honor and the vain praise of creatures.

Second Point

JESUS REPEATS HIS QUESTION THE SECOND AND THE THIRD TIME

By the repeated question: “Lovest thou Me?” Jesus willed to teach us that love must be persevering. The demands of love are not satisfied by merely saying in moments of fervor, “My God, I love Thee,” but love must constantly burn in our hearts. We must, therefore, nourish the fire of love by means of fervent aspirations and prayers, by the faithful observance of the commandments and the counsels, by the practice of good works, but above all, by the conscientious discharge of our duties. Having been asked the third time, “Lovest thou Me?” Peter remembered his three-fold denial of the Master and became sad. Utterly distrusting his own heart, he answered: “Lord, Thou knowest all things; Thou knowest that I love Thee.” No sooner had Peter atoned for his base denial by this humble confession, than Jesus fulfilled a promise made to Peter at an earlier day, to give him the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven, that is to entrust to him the administration of His Church. By this sacred trust Peter was likewise enabled to discharge the commission confided to him with the words: “But I have prayed for thee that thy faith fail not; and thou, being once converted, confirm thy brethren” (Luke 22, 32). Jesus confided this sacred office not to the virgin disciple, John, but to the penitent Peter, to convince us of the love and compassion with which He receives a contrite and humble heart. Was ever goodness like to the goodness of Jesus?

Should not the remembrance of my former sins incite me to greater penance, to more profound humility, to persevering fidelity? Have I confessed the Lord by my works of love and zeal for souls, as often as I formerly perhaps denied His love by my sinful deeds?

Affections: It is true, O my Saviour, that I have frequently offended Thee. I have rendered myself undeserving of Thy friendship and Thy grace. I repent of my sins in all sincerity of soul and desire to atone for them by profound humility and persevering zeal. Such a sincere desire encourages me to say, with St. Peter: Lord Thou knowest all things; Thou knowest that I love Thee, that I desire to love Thee more and more. Tear away my heart from every other love, cleanse it of every inordinate inclination, that Thy holy love may replenish it with increased fervor and constancy. Grant me grace to show my love for Thee by renewed fidelity to the duties of my state of life.

Resolution: I will endeavor to manifest my love of my Divine Lord by self-immolation to the cause of Christian education.

Spiritual Bouquet: “Lord, Thou knowest all things; Thou knowest that I love Thee!”

Prayer: Take, O Lord…

Jesus Speaks To His Disciples of His Departure

“But I tell you the truth; it is expedient to you that I go; for if I go not, the Paraclete will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. And when He is come, He will convince the world of sin, and of justice, and of judgment.” (John 16, 7-8).

First Prelude: Behold Jesus in the Cenacle, conversing with the disciples about His ascension and the descent of the Holy Ghost.

Second Prelude: Enlighten my soul, O God, with the light of the Holy Spirit, that in all things, I may recognize Thy Divine Wisdom and Goodness, and cleanse my heart of all earthly affections.

FIRST POINT
THE WORDS OF JESUS, “IT IS WELL FOR YOU THAT I GO”

Having heard from the lips of their Divine Master that He was about to leave them, the Apostles were seized with fear and depression. Jesus compassionated and consoled them affectionately. Adapting Himself to their weakness, He spoke not of the glory awaiting Him in heaven, but only of the blessings and the benefits that His going should bring to them. Even to the last moment of His visible presence on earth, Jesus forgot Himself, as it were, only to think of us. “It is good for you that I go,” He said to His Apostles. The “going” of Jesus helped them to perfect their faith and hope and to chasten their love. While Jesus was with them, they still expected an earthly kingdom in which they should hold the positions of honor. As children upon their father, they relied in all things upon their Master, and their virtue should never have waxed strong, nor their zeal have increased, had Jesus remained with them.

Occasionally God deprives us, also, of a visible support, which seems to us indispensable. We must leave an appointment, a person, and at once we are dejected, confused, and see in this loss an impediment to our progress in virtue. Our infinitely loving Father, however, knows what is salutary and necessary for us. He permits what is painful only for our benefit, to purify our intentions and to furnish us with opportunities for the practice of virtue. Let us learn, at last, to submit cheerfully to the dispensations of Divine Providence and instead of sorrow, peace will reign in our hearts.

Recalling many an incident of my past life must I not say with fullest conviction: It is good for me that God disposed and directed all as He did? It was good for me that He did not fulfill a certain wish of mine which so occupied my mind, that He subjected me to such and such a trial, which I dreaded so much?

SECOND POINT
THE HOLY GHOST, THE COMFORTER, WILL CONVINCE THE WORLD OF SIN, OF JUSTICE, AND OF THE JUDGMENTS OF GOD

These words found their fulfillment on the feast of Pentecost. Fortified by the strength of the Holy Spirit, Peter convinced the Jews of sin to such an extent that they cried out with contrite hearts: “What shall we do, men and brethren?” (Acts 2, 37), and three thousand sought baptism on the same day in order to be cleansed of their sins. Such is the victory achieved by the Holy Ghost in the Church over the world. In like manner, He vanquishes evil in our hearts, provided we co-operate with grace. The Spirit of Holiness upbraids us with the least sin, corrects and adjusts our perverse judgments, and gives us a clear insight into our weaknesses and defects. In hearts submissive to Him, He entertains a lively detestation of even the most trifling faults, joined with profound humility, uninterrupted vigilance, and the firm resolve to avoid all dangerous occasions. If we have sinned, the Holy Spirit comes to our aid, that we may repent of our sins and not suffer them to become an impediment to the operations of divine grace. How grateful ought we not be for His enlightenments, His inspirations and divine counsels! But how solicitously ought we to utilize such exceptional graces! We should frequently ponder the terrible account that shall one day be exacted of us at the judgment seat of God. The Lord will judge with all the rigors of justice those whom He overwhelmed with His graces, but who have, nevertheless, abused them and thus encumbered themselves with such a tremendous responsibility.

Must I not fear the judgment if I transgress my Holy Rule lightly, exercise little vigilance over my senses and take little thought to repair my known transgressions by sincere compunction?

Affections: O my Jesus, when shall perfect love of Thee fill my heart? Alas, I admit that my earthly tendencies hinder me from being wholly Thine, from loving and praising Thee in all Thy dispensations. Come, O Holy Ghost, with Thy divine light and convince my soul of its weaknesses. Give me courage and strength to vanquish self, to throw off the yoke of created things, and unceasingly to aspire to heaven. Forsake me not, O Spirit of Truth and Holiness, despite my past infidelities, which have rendered me wholly undeserving of Thy divine guidance. I offer Thee a docile and receptive heart, desiring nothing save to be wholly Thine by the bonds of a pure and perfect love, and to be guided solely by Thee.

Resolution: I will carefully cleanse my heart of everything that could hinder the effects of the Holy Ghost.

Spiritual Bouquet: “If I go not, the Paraclete will not come to you.”

Prayer: Take, O Lord . . .

Jesus Prepares A Repast For His Disciples

“As soon then as they came to land, they saw hot coals lying, and a fish laid thereon, and bread. Jesus saith to them: ‘Bring hither of the fishes which you have caught.’ Simon Peter went up and drew the net to land, full of great fishes, one hundred and fifty-three. And although there were so many, the net was not broken. Jesus saith to them: ‘Come, and dine.’ And none of them who were at meat durst ask him: ‘Who art Thou?’ knowing that it was the Lord.” (John 21, 9-13).

First Prelude: Behold Jesus inviting His disciples to partake of the repast, and Himself serving them.

Second Prelude: O my Saviour, give me a better realization of Thy goodness and love, that I may be more solicitous to render myself worthy of it.

First Point

JESUS PREPARES A REPAST FOR HIS DISCIPLES

Having left their ships, the disciples found a fire kindled and a fish frying over it, and some bread. Thus Jesus proved Himself again the loving Father of the house, who provides the necessary nourishment for His children, weary after hard labor. To afford them the pleasure of tasting of the fruits of their own hands, He said: “Bring hither of the fishes which you have now caught.” Simon Peter, the first in his fiery zeal, pulled the net full of big fishes to the shore. How admirable is the love of Jesus in this instance! “Bring hither of the fishes which you have now caught” this benign Master said, as though the generous draught had been the reward of their exertions. In like manner, Jesus deals with us even today. Our actions derive their merit primarily from the infusion of sanctifying grace and the influence of actual grace on our understanding and will. Nevertheless, God proportions His reward to the degree of our exertion, as though He would leave us under the happy impression that we ourselves are the authors and source of our joy and good fortune; whereas, as St. Augustine so beautifully expresses it, “He crowns His own gifts in us.” May we never prove ungrateful for such loving condescension on the part of God, that it may at the same time serve us to humble ourselves and in the conviction of our unworthiness to say with the Apostle: “By the grace of God I am what I am” (1 Cor. 15, 10).

Do I strive to imitate the tender love of our Blessed Lord by gladly denying myself in favor of others? Am I happy when others enjoy the fruits of my endeavors, and receive the recognition that I believe to have merited? Have I not frequently, on the contrary, sought praise and recognition?

Second Point

JESUS SERVES HIS APOSTLES DURING THE REPAST

Jesus knew quite well that His Apostles were completely exhausted with labor and tormented by hunger, therefore, He said to them: “Come and eat.” And with His divine hands He, Himself, waited on them during the meal. Who should not here admire the infinite love of Jesus! While they were busy at work, His inventive love prepared for them the strengthening repast. This generosity condescended to the lowliest services; and His disinterestedness waited eagerly to gladden the heart of the Apostles. To replenish their strength, so necessary for the accomplishing of greater undertakings, Jesus lovingly provided refreshment and consolation for the fatigued disciples.

The Lord deals in like manner with all who are lovingly devoted to Him. He not only affords them interior and spiritual consolation, but frequently compensates them for their labors by exterior and material comforts. In a truly fatherly manner He provides for all their needs and gives them even beyond their desires. His divine goodness, however, is manifested most wonderfully in the Eucharistic Banquet, which in infinite love, He has instituted for our nourishment and support in the difficulties and trials of life. May we always approach this heavenly Banquet with sentiments of profound humility and heartfelt gratitude, animated with holy joy and love, in the realization of the infinite mildness and liberality of Jesus, our beloved Saviour!

If we are chosen to serve our Lord in the person of the poor, the suffering, the children entrusted to our care, let us acquit ourselves of such a noble charge generously and wholeheartedly, counting naught as irksome or difficult in the service of charity. Let us do this affably, bestowing our gifts in a kindly manner to comfort the poor. Is it my aim to prove my gratitude for the immeasurable goodness and the countless benefits Jesus lavishes upon me, by performing the duties of my vocation with love and kindliness?

Affections: I thank Thee, most benign Jesus, for Thy loving solicitude for Thy creatures, especially those consecrated to Thee. How happy are we to be beloved by so magnanimous a God, so tender a Father, so loving a Bridegroom! Oh, that we would proclaim Thy superabounding goodness to the whole world, and glorify Thee in our every word and work! Divine Saviour, Who so often in the Holy Eucharist dost overwhelm our souls with reverence and humility, inflame our hearts with the fire of Thy divine love, that it may consume whatever is imperfect in us, and wholly transform our affections and tendencies, that Thou mayest live in us and we may constantly live in Thee.

Resolution: I will honor my Saviour in the person of my companions in religion and those entrusted to me, and will manifest goodness, affability and indulgence toward them.

Spiritual Bouquet: “And Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them.”

Prayer: O Jesus, living in Mary…

Jesus Makes Himself Known to His Disciples

Meditation for Friday

“That disciple therefore whom Jesus loved, said to Peter: ‘It is the Lord.’ Simon Peter, when he heard that it was the Lord, girt his coat about him, and cast himself into the sea” (John 21, 7).

First Prelude: Behold the Apostles in the ship and Jesus near them on the shore.

Second Prelude: O my Jesus, grant me a pure and love-inflamed heart that I may find joy in Thy divine presence and glorify Thee by my works.

First Point

John is the First to Recognize the Beloved Master

Though Jesus had at an earlier date worked a similar miracle for His Apostles, nevertheless, at first, they knew Him not. Only the eye of the virgin disciple penetrated the mystic veil which enveloped his Lord, and he called out to Peter: “It is the Lord.” Here we see confirmed the words of our Saviour: “Blessed are the clean of heart, for they shall see God” (Matt. 5, 8). Would you, my soul, recognize Jesus, feel His nearness, receive His inspirations and graces, then you must be solicitous to preserve and increase purity of heart. With the Psalmist often say: “A clean heart create in me, O God!” But avoid scrupulously the least faults and imperfections, and be zealous in the practice of mortification and retirement. Then, like the beloved disciple you, too, will be the object of the especial love of Jesus by virtue of purity of heart. Only in so far as your heart is purified and chastened, will it be receptive for the fire of divine love.

The virgin disciple was at the same time, the beloved disciple of our Blessed Lord. He had imbibed love in its proper source, namely, the Heart of His loving Master, which love, in turn, made it possible for him to recognize the nearness of the Beloved. “He that loveth Me,” said our Lord, “I will love him and will manifest myself to him” (John 14, 21). The eye of love detects everywhere the secret operations of Divine Providence. It recognizes in all occurrences the loving guidance of God’s fatherly wisdom and goodness. A soul loving God, confides cheerfully and with childlike trust in His loving direction and guidance and always thinks at heart: The Lord has imposed this trial on me for my sanctification. The Lord enlightens me in prayer, impels me to strive for greater perfection, encourages me to immolate myself without reserve, invigorates and strengthens me. I will follow Him and purify my heart more and more with the aid of His grace, that, loving Jesus more ardently, I may attain to permanent union with Him.

Second Point

Peter Casts Himself into the Sea to Meet Jesus

Hardly had Peter heard the words: “It is the Lord!” when he desired to be with Him. Although the ship was quite near the shore, Peter cast himself into the water to reach Jesus without delay. His love permitted not a thought of the dangers to which he was exposing himself—the ardent desire to be with Jesus alone filled his soul. How marvelous are the effects of divine love described so beautifully in the Imitation: “Love often knoweth no measure, but groweth fervent above all measure; love would willingly do more than it can, because it conceiveth that it may and can do all things. It can achieve anything; and it doth perform and effect many things, where he that loveth not, doth faint and fall prostrate” (Bk. 3, Chap. 5). How necessary is it not, when practicing works of charity, to arm ourselves with courage and confidence, to expose ourselves courageously and cheerfully to the difficulties and dangers encountered in our holy vocation, solely that we may fulfill the holy Will of God. Let us, then, like Peter cast ourselves into the ocean of labors and sufferings, and renouncing generously all comfort and convenience, labor untiringly in the interests of our Blessed Lord. Countless saints have done likewise, and many of our fellow religious are worthy models of the heroic love which forgets self and sacrifices all in the endeavor to attain perfection and intimate union with God.

By fervent prayer and constant fidelity in the daily exercise of mortification we will seek to increase the love of God in our hearts that it may move us to a holy zeal, capable of doing all things with the grace of God. In the difficulties and trials of my holy calling, have I experienced that love gives strength for all things, or have I, on the contrary, yielded to discouragement and dejection?

Affections: O my Divine Saviour, what admirable models hast Thou given to us in Thy two disciples! The tender love of the virgin disciple recognized Thee first, and Peter’s fiery zeal induced him to overcome all obstacles to reach Thee. Ah, when will a spark of this pure and ardent love enkindle my heart, enlighten my understanding, sanctify my actions! O my beloved Jesus, I implore Thee, create a clean heart in me, cleanse me more and more of my sins, give me a truly humble, submissive and love-inflamed heart, that I may adore Thee in all Thy loving dispensations, love and praise Thee and seek my sole happiness in the accomplishment of Thy holy Will.

Resolutions: I will strive to testify my love to my Saviour by purity of heart and generous immolation of self in the service of God.

Spiritual Bouquet: “The disciple whom Jesus loved, said to Peter: ‘It is the Lord.’”

Prayer: Take, O Lord . . .