Extracts from Rev. F.X. Schoupee, S.J. Short Sermons

[Shin]

We ought to ask of God, before all else, the well-being of our soul, and for all that has reference to our salvation. It is, however, permitted us to ask for temporal blessings, such as health, success in our business; but we must ask them as Christians, that is to say, urged by a good motive, having in view the glory of God, and with submission to His divine will.

Have we thus practised, my brethren, the all-important duty of prayer? have we faithfully prayed morning and night? have we prayed in the time of temptation? Let us form the resolution of praying hereafter with the greatest constancy, taking as our example the Saints and Jesus Christ Himself.

* * *

The Church is that great empire which Daniel, in his prophetic visions, saw exalted and extended over all other kingdoms, to remain forever. It is the empire of Christ, that which the Saviour announced under the name of their kingdom or the Kingdom of God, the Church, of which He was to be founder and the head. The Church is a spiritual kingdom, but visible, and analogous to temporal kingdoms.

* * *

Let us ask our Saviour never to permit us to be separated from the Church by heresy, unbelief, or culpable indifference which is the equivalent of apostasy.

* * *

The world's great error was the improper estimate placed on the riches and pleasures of this life, they being considered the only worthy objects of man's ambition and efforts. Our Saviour corrected this error by His doctrine, teaching that the immortal treasures of heaven are alone of intrinsic value; that to acquire them, man must estimate as above everything else the salvation of his soul; that to be saved, he must do penance for his sins, and observe the commandments of God.

[whiterockdove]

amen and thank you for the post!

I like how you have the *** in between  your extracts. I may use that myself, if you don't mind.

[Shin]

The world's great error was the improper estimate placed on the riches and pleasures of this life, they being considered the only worthy objects of man's ambition and efforts. Our Saviour corrected this error by His doctrine, teaching that the immortal treasures of heaven are alone of intrinsic value; that to acquire them, man must estimate as above everything else the salvation of his soul; that to be saved, he must do penance for his sins, and observe the commandments of God.

May the Lord please help us to begin to understand how to do penance and to do it!