Sunday, February 26 : Saint John-Mary Vianney

We read in the story of the holy priest who meets an anguished Christian. “Why are you fearful?” he asks. “Alas, father, I fear that I will fall into temptation and perish. Have I not reason to fear if so many millions of angels have fallen in heaven, even Adam and Eve were vanquished in the garden!” But my friend, says this holy priest, don’t you know that the devil is like a chained dog, he barks and makes much noise, but he can not bite someone who doesn’t get too close. Have confidence in God, flee occasions of sin, and you won’t fall. Had Eve not listened, had she run when he encouraged her to transgress God’s command, she would not have succumbed. When you are tempted, reject immediately and make the sign of the cross with devotion, think of the torments in hell, lift your eyes to heaven and you will receive the help given to those who fight. Call your good angel to come to your assistance, throw yourself into the arme of the Mother of God, you are sure to be victorius. If you fall my brother it is only because you do not avail yourself of the help given by God. Most importantly know that left to yourself you will surely loose, but have a great confidence in He who can do all things.

Roman Catholic Ordinary Calendar – rosary,team