379 part ii: meditations for more solemn feasts world, than this most precious Treasure, in which the God-Man is concealed. The Church Triumphant glories in the beatific vision of the Most Holy Trinity. The Church Militant also glories in the participation in the gifts of God, which she obtains abundantly from this treasury of the Most Holy Body. From there indeed, perfect charity comes; patience is obtained; hope is strengthened; faith beams forth, and from there the meekness, humility, obedience, and other virtues proper to Christians are also drawn. From this treasury is obtained the forgiveness of sins, remission of punishments, improvement of life, illumination of mind, and the salvation of the soul. Since this treasury is never exhausted, it will be with us to the consummation of this transient world. Oh, the true Church of God is most fortunate because of this alone! Go now and obtain from this treasury whatever would be pleasing to your soul. 2. “Let a man examine himself” (1 Cor 11:28). Consider that preparation for Holy Communion is not only a useful thing, but also necessary, as by commandment, for these reasons: 1) Since Most Holy Communion is a heavenly banquet; therefore, could those attending this banquet come unprepared for it? 2) Just as kings are not to be approached inconsiderately, much more so is the Sacred Eucharist God, where the true God and Man is present. 3) Since the Most Holy Body of Christ is a medicine for souls, those who will take the medicine must prepare themselves well for it. 4) Since this is most sumptuous food; therefore, somebody wishing to experience its heavenly taste should consume it with a recollected mind. 5) Although this is the “Bread of Life,” yet those who eat it without previous proper preparation of their soul cannot be vivified by it.
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