Advent at the School of St. Bernard (20)

It is about our souls, not our bodies. The soul, being far nobler than the body, has in virtue of this natural superiority the first claim on our solicitude.

Besides, that which was the first to fall should also be the first to be raised up. Now it was the soul that, having first brought corruption on herself by sin, brought corruption on the body also as a punishment. Furthermore, if we desire to be found true members of Jesus Christ, it is obvious that we must imitate our Head. Hence our first attention must be devoted to the purification of our souls, for the sake of which He has come to us and whose corruption He has first endeavored to heal.

But as for our bodies, let us postpone all concern for these to that time and to that occasion when He shall come again for the purpose of reforming them, as the Apostle assures us, where he says, “We look for the Savior, Our Lord Jesus Christ, Who will reform the body of our lowness, made like to the Body of His glory” (Phil. 3:20-21).

Illustration :

Titre : Annonciation

Artist :  Matthias Stom