Last Sunday after Pentecost

Thoughts for the Week - Fr. R. Taouk 
24th November 2013

Dear Friends,

While the beatitudes are gospel in miniature form, the works of mercy we may say are the gospel in action. St. James reminds us that 'faith without works is dead'. It will profit us little to say with our lips that we love Christ when we don't show it by our example. Hence this week I would like to focus a little upon the spiritual works of mercy as well explained by the Baltimore Catechism for our benefit.

The chief spiritual works of mercy are seven: to admonish the sinner, to instruct the ignorant, to counsel the doubtful, to comfort the sorrowful, to bear wrongs patiently, to forgive all injuries, and to pray for the living and the dead.

To admonish the sinner - If we love our neighbour we should help him in his distress, even when it is an inconvenience to us. We should help him also to correct his faults, we should point them out and warn him of them. We are obliged to do so in the following circumstances: First, when his fault is a mortal sin. Second, when we have some authority or influence over him. Third, when there is reason to believe that our warning will make him better instead of worse. If our advice only makes him worse, then we should not say anything to him about his fault, but keep out of his company ourselves.

Instruct the Ignorant - Especially in their religion, but in whatever is necessary to help them to be better Christians.

Counsel the Doubtful - Regarding a spiritual matter that will help give them clarity and peace of mind.

Comfort the sorrowful - Saying kind words of encouragement to them and being there for them in the time of trial. Bear Wrongs patiently - Things not deserved; for example, persons talking ill about us, accusing us falsely, etc.; but if the false accusations, etc., are going to give scandal, then we must defend ourselves against them. If, for instance, lies were told about the father of a family, and it were likely all his children would believe them and lose their respect for his authority, then he must let them know the truth. But when we patiently suffer wrongs that injure only ourselves, and that are known only to God and ourselves, God sees our sufferings and rewards us. What matters it what people think we are if God knows all our doings and is pleased with them?

Praying for the Living and the dead - Especially praying for the conversion of sinners, or for those who are on their deathbed. Praying for the dead - those suffering in Purgatory, especially if we have ever caused them to sin and those we are indebted to pray for and those who have no one to pray for them.

Blessed are the merciful for they shall be shown mercy !!