Spiritual Work of Mercy – Admonish the Sinner

This week is our final reflection on the third Spiritual Work of Mercy – Admonish the Sinner.  This quote from Pierre Favre, a companion of St. Ignatius, is a fitting way to end our reflection: Sometimes we are interiorly anguished; and though this spirit may speak what is true, reproving us for our many failures, nevertheless if it robs us of our tranquility it is not the good spirit.  The spirit of God is peaceful and gentle, even in reproof. 

Reading that quote helps us understand how we must approach those times that we must admonish or correct.  If our approach is to lambast someone, and leave them feeling belittled and shamed, it is unlikely that a change in behavior or attitude will occur.  If our admonishment is delivered with kindness and communicates a true desire for that person to live more fully in peace, then perhaps the message will have a positive impact.

This week let us be aware of being vessels of tranquility in our relationships with others and approach admonishment with humility and affirmation.