Episode 2231: Perseverance in the Catholic Journey - Morning Episode

We will draw insights from the profound writings of St. Margaret Mary and St. Louis Mary de Montfort, as well as a powerful scripture passage from St. Paul’s letter to the Philippians. Join us as we delve into these teachings from a traditional Catholic perspective and discover how they can inspire and guide us in our daily lives.

"Let every knee bend before Thee, O greatness of my God, so supremely humbled in the Sacred Host. May every heart love Thee, every spirit adore Thee and every will be subject to Thee!" St. Margaret Mary

St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, known for her devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, beautifully captures the essence of Eucharistic adoration in this quote. From a traditional Catholic perspective, her words remind us of the importance of recognizing and revering Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist.

Bending the knee before the Sacred Host signifies an act of deep humility and reverence. This gesture acknowledges the greatness of God who humbles Himself to become truly present under the appearance of bread and wine. St. Margaret Mary’s prayer is a call to total devotion, where every heart loves, every spirit adores, and every will submits to the divine will.

The Eucharist, being the source and summit of Christian life, invites us into a profound relationship with Christ. This adoration extends beyond the moments spent in front of the Blessed Sacrament; it permeates our entire lives, influencing how we love, worship, and obey God.

"Children copy their parents through watching them and talking to them, and they learn their own language through hearing them speak. An apprentice learns his trade through watching his master at work; in the very same way, the faithful members of the Confraternity of the Holy Rosary can become like their divine Master if they reverently study and imitate the virtues of Jesus Christ, which are shown in the mysteries of His life. They can do this with the help of His grace and through the intercession of His Blessed Mother." — St. Louis Mary de Montfort

St. Louis Mary de Montfort, a great advocate for Marian devotion and the Holy Rosary, uses a powerful analogy to illustrate spiritual growth. From a traditional Catholic perspective, this quote emphasizes the importance of imitation in our journey towards holiness.

Just as children learn by watching and listening to their parents, and apprentices by observing their masters, Catholics can grow in virtue by contemplating the mysteries of Christ’s life through the Rosary. This practice allows us to internalize the virtues of Jesus, such as humility, obedience, and charity, and strive to embody them in our own lives.

The role of Mary, our Blessed Mother, is crucial in this process. Through her intercession and example, she helps us draw closer to her Son and become more like Him. The Rosary is not just a prayer but a school of virtue, where, with the help of divine grace, we can grow in holiness and spiritual maturity.

"It is not that I have already taken hold of it or have already attained perfect maturity, but I continue my pursuit in hope that I may possess it, since I have indeed been taken possession of by Christ [Jesus]. Brothers, I for my part do not consider myself to have taken possession. Just one thing: forgetting what lies behind but straining forward to what lies ahead, I continue my pursuit toward the goal, the prize of God’s upward calling, in Christ Jesus." — Philippians 3:12-14

In this passage, St. Paul reflects on the Christian journey as a continual pursuit of holiness. From a traditional Catholic viewpoint, this scripture emphasizes the dynamic nature of our spiritual life and the importance of perseverance.

St. Paul’s humility is evident as he acknowledges that he has not yet attained perfect maturity. This honest self-assessment resonates with the Catholic understanding that spiritual growth is a lifelong process. We are called to continuously strive towards holiness, recognizing that it is Christ who has taken hold of us and who empowers us to persevere.

Forgetting what lies behind involves letting go of past sins and failures, trusting in God’s mercy and grace. Straining forward signifies a proactive and vigorous pursuit of our heavenly goal. This pursuit is marked by hope and determination, knowing that our ultimate prize is eternal union with God in Christ Jesus.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on the wisdom of St. Margaret Mary, St. Louis Mary de Montfort, and St. Paul, we are reminded of the importance of adoration, imitation, and perseverance in our spiritual journey. Let us strive to adore Christ in the Eucharist, imitate His virtues through the Rosary, and persevere in our pursuit of holiness. Thank you for joining us in this exploration of faith. Until next time, may you find peace in God’s presence and strength in His love. God bless.