Here's a bit of Lenten encouragement from St. John Vianney. Of venial sins, which many of us commit more frequently than we blink in a day, he urges us to immediately repent and be mindful of the failing. He recommends that "as soon as you perceive a little stain on your soul, take some holy water with respect, do one of those good works to which the remission of venial sins is attached – an alms, a genuflection to the Blessed Sacrament, hearing a Mass."
Each time I raise my voice in anger, or give in to frustration, or discourage my children instead of teaching them, or curse, or waste time, or shirk the responsibilities of my vocation, I should not fret or berate myself for failing. Instead of turning inward and focusing on myself, I should turn towards heaven--where I should have been oriented when I committed the sin. I should ask for help, forgiveness and grace--I love this idea!
St. John Vianney, may God bless you for your helps to poor sinners!
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