Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Examination of Conscience During Christmas and Epiphany -- 2 of 5 -- (St. Andrew Bible Missal - 1962)

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The Examination of Conscience

during Christmas and Epiphany

"These examens are not complete, in that they do not include the general sins and faults to which we are always exposed.

We have tried to present this examination in a positive form. Rather than ask questions that are self-diagnostic and apt to imply that we are spiritually sick, we shall show the image of the Christian who has responded to the lessons of this season."

The Radiant Christian:

Has joined and been joined more fully in the mystery of the Incarnation. The Christian radiates because faith tells them that the Word of God becomes incarnate to bring all human flesh to the majesty of the eternal kingdom: God became human so that mankind could become more godly.

This sensitive Christian has a full and holy respect for mind and body:

Develops the mind by disciplined reading and thinking; the Christian reads nothing that would corrupt or darken the mind.

Takes care of the body by proper eating habits and means of cleanliness; the Christian consecrates it to the Incarnate God by a fully accepted life of chastity, whether married or single.

Has a full and holy respect for all mankind, for their bodies and property, for their opinions and freedom. The Christian is concerned about their health and visits and helps those who are helpless.

Christians avoid thinking of religion as a system of theories and rules; they arrive for the full mastery of all their human powers so as to become a truly accomplished child of God.

They are on on guard against isolating themselves or becoming a pharisee. They avoid calumny or detraction. They insist on being always open to all that is good: Sacraments, activities, thoughts, culture.

This Christian understands that Incarnation means the entry of God into every aspect of our lives; they never forget how or why God became human. They compare their attitudes wit those of the Lord.

Especially do they cultivate the difficult virtue of patience when things go badly or not at all.

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