Thursday, September 18 : Saint John-Mary Vianney

My brothers, where could our distrust come from? Could it be from our unworthiness? But the good Lord knows well that we are sinners and guilty, and that we count in everything on his goodness which is infinite, and that it is in his name that we pray. And is not our unworthiness covered, and as it were hidden by its merits? Is it because our sins are too dreadful or too numerous? But, is it not as easy for him to forgive us a thousand sins as for one? Is it not mainly for sinners that he gave his life? Listen to what the holy King-Prophet tells us: “Has anyone who prayed to the Lord ever seen that their prayer was not heard? » (Eccli. 2:12) « Yes, he tells us, all who call upon the Lord and have recourse to him have experienced the effects of his mercy. » (…) Consider the tax collector who, acknowledging his guilt, goes to the temple to pray to the Lord for forgiveness. Jesus Christ himself tells us that his sins are forgiven. Consider the sinner who, prostrate at the feet of Jesus Christ, prays to him with tears. Does not Jesus Christ say to her: « Your sins are forgiven you? » (Luke 7:48) The good thief prays on the cross, although covered with the most enormous crimes: not only does Jesus Christ forgive him, but, even more, promises him that on the same day, he will be in heaven with him. Yes, my brothers, if you had to name all those who have obtained their forgiveness through prayer, you would have to name all the saints who were sinners; since it was only through prayer that they had the happiness of being reconciled with the good Lord, who allowed himself to be touched by their prayers.

Roman Catholic Ordinary Calendar – rosary,team