Today, consider in Divine Appeal 186: "Learn to do good. Let it not be enough for you to pray only; meritoriously, I want you to improve in virtue and prayer. "
Sacred Scripture warns against the danger of empty prayer. God rebukes those who offer many prayers while remaining in sin, saying that He will not listen as long as their hands are stained with wrongdoing. He commands them to cleanse themselves, turn away from evil, and learn to do good (cf. Isaiah 1:15-17). These words reveal that prayer must be accompanied by a genuine conversion of heart. It is not enough to speak to God; we must also live according to His will. If prayer does not lead to a transformation of our thoughts, words, and actions, then it becomes superficial rather than a true encounter with our Adorable Jesus.
Growing in virtue is the proof of authentic prayer. The Apostle teaches that faith without works is lifeless and ineffective (cf. James 2:17). A soul that prays sincerely will also strive to cultivate humility, charity, patience, and purity of heart. Our Adorable Jesus desires that we advance in holiness, recognizing our nothingness and depending entirely on His grace. The saints understood this truth deeply. St. Teresa of Avila teaches that the best measure of true prayer is the extent to which it helps us overcome our faults and grow in virtue. If we pray but remain unchanged, we have not yet allowed grace to work fully in us.
Our Adorable Jesus desires that we do all things meritoriously, offering every action for His glory. The Apostle exhorts the faithful to do everything for the glory of God, whether in daily tasks, prayer, or acts of charity (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:31). Every moment of our day should be an offering to our Adorable Jesus. By uniting our daily duties with His divine will, we sanctify even the smallest tasks and make them a means of growing in virtue.
In responding to this Divine Appeal, we must strive to integrate prayer and virtue in our lives. Our Adorable Jesus desires not only that we pray often but that we also live according to His teachings. Let us, therefore, renew our commitment to daily prayer while making a firm resolution to grow in holiness. May our hearts be purified, our actions reflect God’s love, and our entire lives become a testimony of true devotion. By doing so, we will not only fulfill our Lord’s desire but also draw ever closer to Him, who is the source of all goodness.
Prayer
Oh our Adorable Jesus, grant us the grace to grow in virtue and holiness. May our prayers deepen our love for You and transform our hearts. Help us live each moment for Your glory, doing good and reflecting Your mercy. Strengthen our faith and guide us in Your divine will.
Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.
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