Reflection:

Through his many scholarly books on theology, St. Thomas Aquinas’ goal, like that of the Blessed Virgin, was to draw the individual closer to Christ so that he could be transformed into his image and likeness. He spent great effort in examining the characteristics of the divine nature and showing how we might acquire them. His composition of the following prayer reveals those virtues that he considered most important.

Application:

As Our Lady recommends, let us offer this Prayer for a Faithful and Upright Heart from the heart.

O Lord my God,

help me to be obedient without reserve,

poor without servility,

chaste without compromise,

humble without pretense,

joyful without depravity,

serious without affectation,

active without frivolity,

submissive without bitterness,

truthful without duplicity,

fruitful in good works without presumption,

quick to revive my neighbor without haughtiness,

and quick to edify others by word and example without simulation.

Grant me, O Lord, an ever-watched heart

that no alien thought can lure away from you;

A noble heart

that no base love can sully;

An upright heart

that no perverse intention can lead astray;

An invincible heart

that no distress can overcome;

An unfettered heart

that no impetuous desires can enchain.

O Lord my God,

also bestow upon me

understanding to know you,

zeal to seek you,

wisdom to find you,

a life that is pleasing to you,

unshakable perseverance,

and a hope that will one day take hold of you.

May I do penance here below and patiently bear your chastisements.

May I also receive the benefits of your grace,

in order to taste your heavenly joys

and contemplate your glory. Amen.