Deepertruth: You have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace

Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales, Bishop and Doctor of the Church 1/24/2023,  

St Thomas Aquinas describes the effect of receiving Holy Communion. He says, [the Blessed Sacrament] should enflame us with desire for Our Lord, and “inflame our hearts [with charity] and make us godlike… The fervor of charity is its actual effect.” (IIIa q. 79 a. 8) These are its effects, unless we put up obstacles.

One Holy Communion is enough to make us saints. St Maria Goretti received Holy Communion only 5 times in her entire life – and she became a saint. Why is it then, that we do not become saints after so many Holy Communions? St Thomas explains that Holy Communion benefits those who receive Our Lord in the state of grace, more or less, according to the measure of their devotion. (IIIa q. 79 a. 7 ad 2) He explains why: “The effect of this sacrament… is received… according to the condition of the [receiver.]”(IIIa q. 79 a. 6 ad 1 )

So our level of devotion, our reverence for and appreciation of, the Most Blessed Sacrament will help or hinder the effects we get from our Holy Communions.

If we were more reverent towards and grateful for the Most Blessed Sacrament, our Holy Communions would be more fruitful.

Permit me, Divine Jesus, to come closer to You, that my whole soul may do homage to the greatness of Your Majesty; that my heart, with its tenderest affections, may acknowledge Thy infinite love.

Let us begin, In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.