examination of the heart 120 say fearful — as is attested by this saying: “for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.” (Lk 21:26). Therefore, understand that in order to appear before such a dreadful tribunal and face the fearful countenance of the Judge, no other preparation will be necessary for you, except a very pure and good conscience. This alone does not fear even divine judgment. 3. “and upon the earth distress of nations” (Lk 21:25). If we observe in our times some inordinate and bloody wars, plagues, and famines, the world thrown into turmoil by various unrests and riots, we usually say that the “Day of Judgment,” or a day similar to the Last Judgment, has come. What shall you say then, when you see things never yet seen, and hear things never yet heard; when the most merciful God abandons all mercy, when the angels tremble, and the just are in terror? For in that time, on that day, in that moment, even justices will be judged, discussed, and examined with great care. If we ever attend a trial conducted by some secular judge, we will see men who are apprehensive and upset with fear, and who prepare themselves for judgment in various ways. Most of all, however, they seek to avoid being convicted of a crime. Thus, for a similar reason, you should strive ever more to prepare yourself for the tribunal of the heavenly Judge, by washing away past sins through fitting penance, by avoiding future sins, and especially [f.4r] by frequently and piously receiving Holy Communion, because it erases faults, appeases the anger of the Divine Majesty, and brings the greatest peace to the conscience. After Holy Communion 1. “for the powers of the heavens will be shaken” (Lk 21:26). Whether you understand by “powers” the firmaments of Heaven or the angels, it is indeed most necessary that both of these considerations would move you and incline you to do serious penance before it is too late. For if the firmaments are to fall down on this last day, what else can be expected by the whole of creation if not the dreadful revelation of sins? If the most pure, unblemished angelic powers will tremble, then with what coun-
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