APPRECIATION OF THE PRECIOUS GIFT OF OUR FAITH series for July 28-30, 2000
Works of Mercy
part two
When we teach catechism we are performing a spiritual work of mercy. Many can do this work today, if they only would. Numerous persons, even at an advanced age, do not know the essentials of their religion, for want of someone to teach them.
The chief spiritual works of mercy are seven:
1. To admonish the sinner.
Whenever we think our words may have a good effect, we should not hesitate to admonish the erring prudently. Those in authority, such as parents and teachers, are bound to admonish those under them of their faults, even if in doing so they bring trouble upon themselves. Good example is another way of admonition.
In admonishing sinners, we must do so with gentleness and charity. Otherwise we might only produce results the opposite of what we wish. It would be wrong, if with a little trouble we could save a sinner from sin, did we not speak to save him; it would, moreover, be a loss of great grace for ourselves. "He who causes a sinner to be brought back from his misguided way, will save his soul from death, and will cover a multitude of sins" (James 5:20).
2. To instruct the ignorant.
Missionaries, catechists, confessors. Christian writers and teachers-all who teach religion or other useful knowledge-are doing an important work of mercy, and will receive a reward. They that instruct many unto justice shall shine as stars for all eternity (cf. Daniel 12:3). Those who collect money for foreign missions do this work of mercy.
3. To counsel the doubtful.
We should be most zealous in helping those whom a word may save or aid. How happy we should be if the word we say helps a doubtful one to become firm in his faith!
As in admonishing sinners, advising the doubtful should be done prudently, and gently, to effect good results. It is seldom effective to rush into heated argument. Let us pray first, before giving counsel.
4. To comfort the sorrowful.
We can comfort the afflicted by showing them sincere sympathy, by suggesting consolations, and by helping them in their need.
To comfort the sorrowful is a work of mercy, similar to curing the sick, since grief is a mental and emotional ailment. To give comfort, we may speak of God's providence, of His love for every single one of His creatures, of the happiness He reserves for us in Heaven, when all earthly sorrows and troubles will be ended.
5. To bear wrongs patiently.
By being patient with injustice, we benefit both ourselves and our fellow-man. Our patience helps him realize his wrong-doing. It is, however, wrong to permit others to falsely lay a serious crime to our charge. But let us be patient, for love of God.
6. To forgive all injuries.
We must not seek revenge. "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord" (Romans 12:19). We must forgive others, as we hope God will forgive us. Instead of seeking revenge, those who wish to imitate the saints go out of their way to do favors to those who injure them. Like Jesus Christ, they love all men.
7. To pray for the living and the dead.
July 28-30, 2000
volume 11, no. 127
APPRECIATION OF THE PRECIOUS GIFT OF OUR FAITH series
Return to front page of current issue
|