2. Supernaturally. Acts of virtue practised by us obtain for us additional actual graces to practise yet more acts of virtue: and thus faithful souls constantly strengthen the chain of graces which binds them ever more closely to God. Unfaithful souls forfeit these additional helps of grace that were in store for them; and thus their chain of graces is gradually weakened, so that temptations may occur which cause them serious falls into sin. Examine your daily conduct of fidelity to grace.
Colloquy, according to the sentiments evoked by these considerations.
MEDITATION IV
The Observance of Our Rules
1st Prelude. Imagine you see St. Ignatius, as he is often painted, with the book of his Constitutions in his hands.
2nd Prelude. Beg through his intercession for a high appreciation of our rules.
POINT I. What are the rules of our Society? They are a summary of those wonderful Constitutions which the Holy Ghost has used for the conversion and sanctification of countless multitudes of souls during the last four centuries, namely:
1. Of the numerous members of our Society during the successive generations, so many of whom have given evident proofs of having attained heroic sanctity.
2. Of vast numbers of other persons of the clergy and the laity who have been saved and sanctified by the virtues and the labors of the members of our Society.
POINT II. Why are these rules so productive of sanctity?
1. Because they are not merely human work; for St. Ignatius, in writing his Constitutions, obtained by fervent prayer the special assistance of the Holy Ghost. This is evident from the history of the Saint. (For instance, Genelli’s “Life of St. Ignatius,” p. 248).