TODAY’S WORD…

Because You answer prayers

people everywhere will come to You

on account of their sins.

Our faults defeat us,

but You forgive them.

– Psalm 65:2-3

REFLECTION…

Sin eventually chokes us. The unrepented sin, like poison, eats away at our mind, soul and, yes, even our body. Jesus showed us how God loves – He never refused a contrite heart. He compassionately tells us, “Your sins are forgiven…go and sin no more.”

It is said, “No one is a good judge in his own case” and because Jesus always seeks our perfect contrition, He gave His apostles and their successors the power to forgive or retain sins on His behalf. (Jn. 20:21-23) The Sacrament of Reconciliation, therefore, provides us is with the great comfort of knowing that we have been truly forgiven, and fills us with the joy which comes from having received God’s grace.

QUOTES…

“When you go to confession you un-nail Our Lord.”  – St. John Vianney

“In confession you not only receive absolution from the sins you confess, but also great strength to avoid them in the future, light to see them clearly, and abundant grace to repair whatever damage you have incurred. You will also practice the virtues of humility, obedience, simplicity, and charity.

In the single act of confession you will exercise more virtues than in any other act whatsoever.”   – St. Francis de Sales

PRAYER…

Most gracious Lord, lead me to true repentance.

Most loving Lord, give me a contrite heart,

and fill me with humility and a yearning to cleanse my soul.

Most compassionate Lord, I seek the grace of Your full pardon,

the renewal of my spirit, and the blessing of Your friendship

– lead me, I pray, to frequent confession.

Amen.