MEDITATION ON THE THREE EFFECTS OF ZEAL FOR SOULS

Preach the word of God; be prepared in season and out of season; reprove, plead, and exhort with all patience and teaching. (2 Timothy 4:2)

I. Although not all Christians are apostles, they should nevertheless have zeal for the salvation of their neighbor. But in order for this zeal to be well ordered, each one must begin by converting himself. You have zeal for the conversion of your relatives, your friends, your servants; you charitably point out their faults; this zeal is praiseworthy; but if you do not examine yourself, it is indiscreet; see if you do not have the faults that you reproach in others.

II. Contribute as much as you can, with your words, to the salvation of others. Jesus Christ did not hesitate to converse with little children, nor with the Samaritan woman, to show them the way to heaven.  A kind word spoken to that relative, that friend, that servant, will win their soul for God. Jesus Christ shed all His blood to redeem that soul, and you refuse to say a word to prevent their damnation? Where is your charity?

III. Do you want to be a true apostle? Preach by your actions. Live an exemplary life; you will move people more when they see you than by listening to the most famous preacher; your modesty will restrain even the most libertine. How many opportunities to work for your neighbor do you let slip by? It is certain, says St. Gregory, that God will hold you accountable for the soul of your neighbor if you neglect to work for their salvation to the best of your ability.

Zeal for souls.
Pray for the clergy.