March 15th Fast

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JMJ

A clear rejection of the law of God, engraved in our hearts, is in jeopardy. . .  Here, the envy of the Devil, through which sin entered the world, is also present, and deceitfully intends to destroy the image of God: man and woman, who receive the mandate to grow, multiply, and conquer the earth. 

 Let us not be naive: it is not a simple political struggle; it is an intention [which is] destructive of the plan of God. It is not a mere legislative project (this is a mere instrument), but rather a "move" of the father of lies who wishes to confuse and deceive the children of God. 

Jesus tells us that, in order to defend us from this lying accuser, he will send us the Spirit of Truth. Today, the Nation [patria], before this situation, needs the special assistance of the Holy Ghost that may place the light of Truth amid the shadows of error. . .That is why I turn to you and ask from you prayer and sacrifice, the two invincible weapons which Saint Thérèse confessed to have. " 

(Letter of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio to the Carmelite Nuns of the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires, June 22, 2010)

Nothing more profoundly reflects the image of God than the unity of man and woman in holy matrimony; subsequently, nothing mirrors the love of the triune God so well as the family.  It is precisely the reason that the devil is intent on its destruction.  A marriage faithfully and fruitfully lived not only leads the spouses but those around them closer to God, and is meant to cultivate worship of Him whose image it reflects.  When this sacramental and natural union is attacked, the image is obscured and distorted.  It no longer bears the reflection of the light of Truth, but instead projects the dark abyss of evil.  Man is not moved to worship the all-loving triune God, instead he worships the distortions the devil offers: lust, power, avarice, envy.

As our Holy Father, Pope Francis (then Cardinal Bergoglio), wrote, our most powerful weapons against these attacks are those which the devil cannot defeat: prayer and sacrifice. As St. Francis deSales said, "although we may be able to do but little, the enemy nevertheless stands more in awe of those whom he knows can fast".

Marriage is not simply important for the stability of society; it is vital to the health of the Body of Christ, essential to the evangelization and salvation of souls.  If we believe in its supernatural importance, then surely the devil must know he must eradicate it in order to catch more souls in his snares.

Let us pray for perseverance in prayer, and fortitude in fasting.  No evil design is overcome without these.    Do not let him deceive us into thinking these "invincible weapons" are useless.  God shows His might through the weak and so will use us if we are humble enough to allow Him.  In times of trial, let us especially remember our recourse to the most humble, and yet most powerful of intercessors, our Blessed Mother:

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother; to thee do I come; before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.