The Sacrament of Reconciliation

The sacrament of reconciliation is a sacrament of healing. Our sins make wounds in our hearts that bleed. Confession is the blood transfusion, which is essential for blood loss and anemia. Penance heals the wounds and strengthens us in our weaknesses.

The Father is always on guard; as Jesus says in the parable of the “lost’ son,” or better yet the “merciful Father.” He also waits for us, if we are still far away and think of no return. He will embrace us and hold a feast, when we come back.

The sacrament of reconciliation goes far beyond the psychological assistance of a psychologist or psychiatrist. We are taken to peace, deep down in our souls. Our guilt is taken away, something only God can. The grace of confession is more than just the comforting words of a priest; it is a real boost. Confession’s grace gives us the strength and the energy to continue living: not just good advice, insight, and encouragement.

These two sacraments – Eucharist and the Sacrament of Reconciliation – we can receive regularly. The other sacraments – baptism, confirmation, marriage – we often see only as strong times in our lives. We must not forget to celebrate their anniversaries, like the day of a wedding. The grace of the sacraments, however, is given to us day after day to live on, as this also applies to the priesthood.

Incidentally, all the sacraments – including the Sacrament of the Sick – give us strength.

Central to all the sacraments, of course, is the Eucharist. It covers all the sacraments and is the culmination and source of every Christian community. If we have the opportunity, also throughout the week to go to the Eucharist, our union with Christ and with the community around grows all the stronger.