examination of the heart 454 reproached him afterwards, when, having seen, he believed. “You have believed because you have seen me. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe” (Jn 20:29). You, on the other hand, try to eagerly and immediately open your heart to God’s inspirations, as well as to the admonishments and encouragements of your Superiors. Beware not to say the same words, “I will not believe.” Beware not to murmur inside yourself, “I will not obey,” especially in this Holy Communion, when the Lord may expect many things from you. After Holy Communion 1. “Jesus came” (Jn 20:26). Consider this: as the Lord appeared to the apostles, they were filled with joy that was as great as the desire with which they awaited to see Him. But consider also their immense gratitude at seeing the Lord coming to help the doubting St. Thomas by showing him His sacred side. Would you not rejoice since you have the same Lord in your heart? Would you not be grateful to the One Who has driven away from your soul all the darkness of improper thoughts, restored the calm of your spirit, imparted the grace of devotion, and placed His whole self within you? Come now! Give thanks to God and, embracing Him with your whole heart, cry out together with St. Thomas: “My Lord and my God” (Jn 20:28); having pity on my soul, He came to me; I will hold Him, and I will not let Him go. 2. “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe” (Jn 20:29). Consider that the Son of God also had you in mind then; for although you did not see Him among men with your corporal eyes, yet today you believed that He, concealed under the species of bread, is present [f.146r] on the altar; and you adored Him and hospitably admitted Him into your heart. Praise the Lord for this illumination, and honor Him in the highest degree. From now on act in such a manner that He would not have to say to you something like: “blessed are they who have
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