I have read this from one of the Padre Pio leaflets or newsletters that my grandfather used to receive regularly in the mail. Now that he has passed away, I consider this as one of the more important things I 'received' from him. He has always been a devotee of Padre Pio and his teachings have truly aided him in life. I kept a copy of this particular page because each and every time I read it, it never fails to strike me. And in sharing this piece, I hope it stikes you too, gently or otherwise =), where you need reminding. God bless! =)
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You have no doubt heard about Satan's brainstorming session in Hell. The archenemy of God called together his minions. He demanded suggestions about how they could win more souls. "We have corrupted many souls, but I want more, manymore. We must double our efforts. How can we seduce more unsuspecting souls? "
One of his evil ones proposed that people be told that there is no such place as Hell. Its a fiction. Satan nodded, "Yes, but we have used that. And it was successful. Now our time is short. We need a subtle snare. Something that will capture millions."
Another said, " Tell them that there IS NO HELL. It is a myth; a foolish story to scare children. Satan again agreed that that too was effective but it has been used.
One other, way in the back of hall, raised a hand. "Tell them there is lots of time. There's no hurry. They can put off attending Mass or going to confession until next month. Or next summer. Theres plenty of time." And satan smiled.
I worry, as I know you, do about friends or relatives who live on the very edge of everlasting chaos. They seem to have lost all interest in Jesus and His promise of a place in His Kingdom. They go to Mass perhaps on Christmas or Easter Sunday. But it is more of a social outing than true repentance and devotion to Christ. Almost never do they go to confession. Even so when they attend their annual Mass they received Communion-- The Holy Eucharist-- the body, blood, soul and divinity of Christ.
I've said this before; let me say it again. "We dare not play games with God. If one of these tepid ones sins and puts off seeking sacramental forgiveness for whatever reason, he or she is a fool. Padre Pio gives us an example of one devious and unrepentant fool.
A woman who had recently lost her husband came to Padre seeking consolation and assurance about her husband. He had once left her and their two children to live with another woman for over three years. Unexpectedly cancer had claimed his life. Before his death, after urgent appeals, he had consented to receive the last Sacraments of the church. The woman, short and plain, nervously adjusted the kerchief on her head and finally asked the inevitable. "Where is his soul, Padre ? I havent stopped worrying."
Padre Pio watched her with troubled eyes. He could almost feel her grief filling his own heart. "Your husband's soul is condemned forever," he whispered.
Padre Pio nodded sadly. "When receiving the last Sacraments he concealed many sins. He had neither repentance nor a good resolution. He was also a sinner against Gods mercy because he said he always wanted to have a share of the good things in life and then have time to be converted to God."
What a price to pay for "the good things in life." Let us all set aside time each day, just a few minutes, perhaps at bedtime, to pray that Our Good Shepred will be merciful to our wandering ones, to our "unrepentant fools" and bring them SAFELY HOME.
Source: Prophet of the People by Dorothy M. Gaudiose / Padre Pio Newsletters
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