ππΎππΎππΎ Discourse on the Divine Mystery of #Holy #Communion
1. To those who faithfully partake of Holy Communion
"Whoever endures to the end will be saved" Matthew 24:13
The essence of the Christian life resides not only in professing faith but in preserving it until our last breath. This was the counsel of our Lord to His disciples, whom He ordained and sent forth to proclaim the Gospel. He did not promise them a path strewn with roses, but a journey filled with trials, strewn with fiery tests and bearing the sharp edge of persecution.
It is of utmost importance to keep in mind that your victor, the Lord who has overcome the world, is by your side. Despite manifold hardships, remember to remain steadfast in your faith and love of God, and never to let your spiritual crown tumble.
Learn to treat the mundane affairs of this world with equanimity, cherishing the knowledge that all things on earth are but fleeting. With perseverance, transform every aspect of your life, be it commerce, agriculture, learning, marrying, rearing children, into an act of dedication to God. Remember that you do not bear the weight of your life alone; your God is by your side, transforming all your deeds into blessings.
Heed the wisdom imparted in the scriptures to combat the devil's ploys. Do not disregard the tribulations you face, for these trials temper your faith. After savouring the grace of God, pray fervently that any worldly enticements that could wrench you from God's glory be quashed beneath your feet.
2. To those desiring to faithfully partake of Holy Communion
"Now is the day of salvation" /2 Corinthians 6:2/
The Apostle's exhortation that today is the day of our salvation should spur our determination to prepare for Holy Communion.
The desire to partake in Holy Communion must be birthed from the Holy Spirit. It requires self-examination and contemplation: Why do I desire Communion? How deeply do I comprehend its significance? What are my expectations for life post-Communion?
Saint Peter proclaimed, "Lord, to whom shall we go?" (John 6:68), emphasizing the enduring, life-giving truth that Christ alone has the words of eternal life. However, many stumbled at Christ's claim, "My flesh is real food, and my blood is real drink." Such people could not fathom how one could consume Christ's flesh and blood, and thus, they fell away. To prevent a similar downfall, ensure that your motivation for Communion stems not from anything else than the depth of your faith and from guidance provided by your spiritual leader.
As you approach Holy Communion, beware of the whispers of Satan, who seeks to fill your heart with doubts and fears.
3. To those distant from Holy Communion
"If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church" /Matthew 18:17/
No Christian who truly grasps the significance of Holy Communion would shun it. Are you hesitant to receive Communion due to personal conflicts or issues? Address these problems openly within the church, as instructed by the Gospel.
Those who believe they can traverse this world unscathed by troubles are victims of a devilish delusion. Indeed, as followers of Christ, we should expect the world's disdain and hostility, for our Lord warned, "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first" (John 15:18).
Consequently, if we avoid approaching God due to our problems, our error is grave. For no matter the chaos in our lives, we should never consider ourselves unworthy to draw near to God.
Every Christian has the capacity to dedicate their life to the worship and glorification of God, just as they have the potential to prepare for eternal glory through Holy Communion.
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