The attack on marriage is really an attack on the human person, and his dignity, for the devil seeks to pervert our true purpose, to pervert God's holy design. For many of us, we cannot march in protests or write dozens of letters or call numerous times to urge legislators to vote for the Truth. But one thing we can all do is pray and fast. We have designated one day each week to fast for these intentions:

1. That marriage may be preserved, promoted, and understood as God's plan for creation.

2. For all marriages that they may reflect the love of the Trinity.

3. For broken marriages that Christ bring healing and conversion to the spouses' souls.

4. For those who are married, for the sanctification of their marriage and their spouse. For those who are single, for their future spouse and vocation.


Thursday, November 6, 2014

November 7th Fast

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JMJ
"I will hide from people's eyes whatever good I am able to do so that God Himself may be my reward.  I will be like a tiny violet hidden in the grass, which does not hurt the foot that treads on it, but diffuses its fragrance and, forgetting itself completely, tries to please the person who has crushed it underfoot.  This is very difficult for human nature but God's grace comes to one's aid."  (Diary of St. Faustina, No. 255)
One of the greatest saints of modern times, Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, spent her days hidden in a monastery, unconcerned about the attentions of others and instead quietly sought her heavenly reward by the small acts of love she performed each day unbeknownst to her Carmelite sisters.  When told by the novices in her care that her Little Way was too simple and easy, she quickly noted that though it was simple, easy it was not.  She was keenly aware of the  mighty struggles that took place within her to to perform these selfless acts that when unnoticed, but supremely confidant in the the path she was treading.

It is easy to imagine oneself as a magnanimous benefactor who would gladly give away his money in anonymity; giving to those in need eagerly and willingly.  And yet, in his every day life, he may feel burdened by the with apparent cross of anonymity when it comes to his good works and selfless acts.  For those especially dear to him, he performs innumerable sacrifices each day but is slighted if the recognition he believes he deserves is not immediately forthcoming.  It is then that one must accept that a true sacrifice is a selfl-denying act that seeks no comfort, physical or emotional, to soften the hardship incurred.

The saints desired no adulation, and were content to live humbly and obscurely on earth if only to share in His glory in Heaven.  If Faith informs us that Heaven is complete happiness then surely it must make us realize that any trifle reward on this earth is nothing in comparison to that of Eternity.

Remember that your sacrifices are not separate and singular.  They are joined with others to strengthen the Body of Christ.  In family life, the spouses' gifts of self together solidify the bond that unites them, and the love that draws them closer.  Be content knowing that doing God's will each moment of each day will bring peace to your home and everlasting joy in Heaven.  

"[But] take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from heavenly Father.  When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward.  But when you give alms do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your almsgiving may be secret.  And your Father who sees in secret will repay you." (Mt. 6: 1-2)