examination of the heart 268 fore work hard, that you may “bring forth much fruit in patience” (cf. Lk 8:15). 3. “and thrown into the fire” (Mt 7:19). Consider how a prudent landholder, taking into account not only the embellishment, but also the profit from his garden, plants various little trees, irrigates the ones planted, and is not accustomed to neglect anything regarding their needs. But when he sees that any one of them, in spite of such care, does not grow and does not bring forth fruit, but indeed that being unfruitful it has withered, in order that it would not be in the way or be a cause of disgrace, he cuts it down and gives it up to the flames. What great care that heavenly Lord displays also for you, His beloved tree! Behold today He watered you with His own Blood, like a most exquisite rose; He fertilized you with His Most Holy Body, like a chosen vine. Woe to you if you do not bear fruit, if you become unfruitful, if you wither! Then the fire, the fire awaits you, and indeed an everlasting one. EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST Before Holy Communion 1. “who had a steward” (Lk 16:1). Consider that you also are a steward of God, who gave you your soul and five senses that you should govern them. He gave you knowledge and some cognizance of spiritual matters [f.71r] to administer these gifts; not that you would waste them or hide them in the earth, but that by their good administration, you may make profit and fruit for your Lord. Consider therefore your qualities and ability; and be on your guard not to neglect what you could do for God’s honor, for the salvation and the advantage of your neighbor and for your own. For it is a sacrilege to be unwilling to make use of divine gifts. 2. “What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your stewardship” (Lk 16:2).
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjI2Mw==