Book 4, Chapter 6: A Petition Concerning Proper Preparation for Communion.
Chapter Focus: The shortest chapter in Book 4, only 136 words (including the title). This prayerful reflection from Thomas sets the tone for receiving the Holy Communion. Thomas helps us to recognize our own unworthy nature when compared to God’s greatness. His earnest prayer pleads for a spiritual exercise to better the soul for receiving Holy Communion. That prayer is answered in Chapter 7. Read on. Pray on.
by Ariel Agemian
Chapter 6, In Short.
- When approaching to receive Holy Communion, my spirit is confused by comparing God’s greatness to my unworthy nature.
- Teach me, Lord, to prepare my heart for You, so that I may receive Your Sacrament to my soul’s betterment.
Question: Are you ready to receive Him?
Key Quote: Please, Lord, teach me the right way.
The text of Chapter 6: A Petition Concerning Proper Preparation for Communion.
The Voice of the Disciple:
When I consider Your greatness, O Lord, and my own unworthy nature, I tremble to excess, and am confused within my spirit.
For if I do not come to You in Holy Communion, I fly from life; and if I intrude myself into the Sacrament while still unworthy, I run into Your displeasure. What shall I do then, O my God, my helper and my counselor in necessities?
2. Please, Lord, teach me the right way. Propose some short exercise suitable for receiving Holy Communion. For it is worth-while to know
how I ought to prepare my heart devoutly and reverently for You, with full intention that I may receive Your Sacrament to my soul’s betterment, or for celebrating so great and divine mystery.
This resonates with me a lot. I often find myself tearful as I approach to receive the holy eucharist…I never feel worthy, and I am in awe that we are able to partake in such a magnificent feast.