CMO 81: 061325 Show Notes "Souls of Mercy"

 

In today’s personal reflection which I will share with you momentarily, I was moved to deep reflection after reading an excerpt from St. Faustina’s Diaries number 367 titled “A Marvel to Angels and Man” and today’s quote from Archbishop Fulton Sheen by Matthew Kelly titled: 365 Days of Inspiration, The Wisdom of Fulton Sheen, 2019, Blue Sparrow Publishing, I just had to share this with those of you, Christian or Catholic, who wonder, as I did between 1996 and 2017 if there is a place at the Lord’s table for such a soul as you—the answer is, “Yes, there is.” Let’s talk about that after the break.

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Archbishop Fulton Sheen: “When our conscience bothers us, whether we admit it or not, we often try to justify it by correcting others, or by finding fault with them.”

Explanation of Quote by Archbishop Fulton Sheen

The quote by Archbishop Fulton Sheen, “When our conscience bothers us, whether we admit it or not, we often try to justify it by correcting others, or by finding fault with them,” speaks to a profound truth about human behavior and inner conflict. It reflects the tendency of people to deflect attention away from their own shortcomings and unresolved guilt by focusing on the flaws and actions of others.

At its core, this statement highlights how a troubled conscience—whether due to moral failings, mistakes, or unaddressed issues—creates discomfort within us. Instead of confronting these inner struggles, which requires introspection and humility, some may unconsciously seek relief by projecting their discomfort outward. This often manifests as criticism, judgment, or attempts to correct others, as if shifting the focus might lessen the weight of their own guilt.

This behavior stems from a natural, though misguided, effort to reconcile the inner dissonance caused by a conscience that is not at peace. It can serve as a temporary distraction or justification, but it does not resolve the underlying issues. The quote reminds us of the importance of self-awareness and the humility to face our own failings without resorting to blaming or criticizing others.

To truly address a troubled conscience, one must sincerely examine their own actions, seek forgiveness where needed, and take steps to grow in virtue. Archbishop Sheen’s insight invites us to reflect on how we respond when our conscience is disturbed and challenges us to embrace accountability and grace in the process of spiritual and moral growth.

Based on this reading, in the Catholic tradition, how does one grow in virtue?

Growth in virtue within the Catholic tradition is rooted in a commitment to living out the Gospel through prayer, sacramental life, and acts of charity. The process begins with an intentional openness to God’s transformative grace, allowing the Holy Spirit to inspire and guide one's actions.

Key practices include frequent sacramental confession, where individuals reconcile with God and confront their moral shortcomings. The Eucharist serves as spiritual nourishment, strengthening one's resolve to embody Christ-like virtues. Prayer, especially contemplative and meditative forms, deepens one’s intimacy with God, fostering humility, patience, and a spirit of forgiveness.

A practical approach to growing in virtue involves examining one’s conscience regularly and cultivating self-awareness. This introspection helps identify areas for improvement and encourages accountability. Additionally, actively practicing specific virtues, such as kindness, temperance, or courage, through everyday actions trains the soul in holiness. Engaging in acts of service and generosity toward others further reflects the love of Christ and reinforces virtuous habits.

Catholic teachings emphasize that growth in virtue is not solely a personal endeavor but is supported by community. Relationships within the Church provide encouragement, correction, and inspiration to live more virtuously. Trust in God’s grace and perseverance in the face of challenges ensure that, over time, one’s soul is purified and aligned more closely with God’s will.

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Personal Reflection.

I often wonder—am I, of all people, one of the Lord’s “chosen souls” that He spoke about in #367 of Saint Faustina’s diaries? Maybe? All I truly know is this: I have always loved the Holy Trinity, our most Blessed Mother Mary, the Angels, and the Saints. I wholeheartedly believe in the teachings of Holy Mother Church, including life after death, purgatory, the forgiveness of sins, and everything we profess in the Creed.

It is true that I have made many mistakes and committed sins—sins I deeply regret, am ashamed of, and for which I pray with all my heart have been properly confessed.

But I place my trust in my Savior, believing in His mercy, especially after the words of my spiritual director and confessor who once told me in the confessional, “Forget about the sins of the past.”

When he spoke those words, it was as though Christ Himself were speaking directly to me. In that sacred moment, I found the courage to admit that, for an instant, I saw the face of Christ in my confessor.

The Moment Is Now

I believe the moment is here—an invitation to step into the present with intention, to embrace today with renewed purpose. The past, with all its lessons and sorrows, need not weigh us down. It can serve as a guidepost, a means to touch the pain, redirect its meaning, and discern the calling of the present: to inspire others to love God wholeheartedly and to love their neighbors with equal fervor. This is a call to cultivate greatness in neighborliness, for greatness surpasses the adequacy of mere goodness—a truth beautifully articulated by Fr. Michael Schmitz.

This mission extends to my own journey. It is my responsibility to act with love, even toward those whom I find most difficult to embrace. And yet, my heart aches to witness many moving away from this divine principle, choosing paths that distance them from love's transformative power. Still, as I reflect on the mission entrusted to me in 2017, when Christ, through His Mother and the Church, invited me back with the words: "Go and teach my children to love and pray, with love as the focus," I feel the depth of its significance more than ever.

At the time, I could not fully comprehend the magnitude of His statement. It lingered as a mystery, tucked away in my heart, awaiting clarity. Now, eight years into this journey toward God, I believe understanding has dawned. Much has been learned, many steps taken—but the real work begins now. The path forward is illuminated by love, by prayer, and by the courage to guide others, not just toward goodness, but toward greatness in living as God's children. May this calling continue to shape my actions, to align my heart with His will, and to inspire others to discover the divine depth of love.

Let Us Be Souls of Mercy

Let us cast aside pride and blind ambition, embracing humility and compassion in every facet of our lives. Whether in the quiet sanctity of our homes or the bustling activity of our communities; in workplaces or schools; within our churches or offices—let our conduct and way of life radiate the unmistakable light of Christian love.

This love must not be shallow or fleeting but must spring from the profound depths of the soul, a love so transformative that it reveals the face of God to all who encounter it. It is through such love that hearts open to His divine grace, mercy, forgiveness, and boundless affection.

By living as vessels of this pure and unyielding love, we become beacons—testaments to the faith we hold dear, and instruments through which His mercy flows abundantly into the world. Let us be courageous in our calling, steadfast in our mission, and ever faithful in demonstrating that we are Christians by the love we carry and share, a love that reflects God Himself.

How do we achieve this? By immersing ourselves in prayer and fostering a deep, personal relationship with God. There is a seat reserved for each of us at His table—a truth I came to realize in 2017 when He revealed my own place. At that time, my life was tangled in chaos, far from perfect. In many ways, it still is. Yet, through His grace, I am becoming a better, more sanctified version of myself. My journey is far from complete, but I am moving forward, and so can you. No matter how you arrive at His table, it is enough to know that you are loved—not just by me, but infinitely more by Him.

Remember to love God with all your everything and not be a good neighbor but a great neighbor, especially toward those who aren’t so kind to us. Until next time …

Our Lady of Fatima. Pray for us!