In Father Alban Butler’s Lives of the Saints for Every Day in the Year, he writes about the saint’s chastity that “purity is a gift of God: we can gain it and preserve it only by care and diligence in avoiding all that may prove an incentive to sin.” He then quotes Jesus’ insightful truth: “But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile. For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, unchastity, theft, false witness, blasphemy” (Matthew 15:18-19). Therefore, we must guard our hearts. God gave Saint Agatha the grace to honor the virtue of chastity in her heart, and He will give us the same if we develop a near and dear relationship with Him. He will help us exercise prudence to guard our senses and promptly reject temptations. If we are resolved to lead a clean life and rely on prayer when temptation arises, the Holy Spirit will give us more and more grace—the same grace that Saint Agatha received in her own heroic life.

We do something similar when we work the eleventh step daily, asking God to blend our imperfect wills with His holy will. As part of our Step Eleven, we can ask for prudence and courage, both of which are needed to avoid and turn from lustful thoughts, desires, and actions. Let us therefore examine our relationship with Jesus today and make sure it is not half-hearted. Having been given wonderful tools in our recovery and graces through the sacraments, we can align the desires of our hearts with those of God by His grace. And as we pray for this grace, let us ask Saint Agatha to intercede for us.

Reflection Questions

• What tools do you rely on to avoid and resist lustful thoughts to remain true to the virtue of chastity? Is there more you can do in this area?
• Ask Saint Agatha today for her help to be more prudent, courageous, and pure of heart in your battles against temptation, just as she was during her life and martyrdom.

Daily Mass Reflections

First Reading: Hebrews 12:4-7, 11-15
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 103:1-2, 13-14, 17-18a
Gospel: Mark 6:1-6

Reflection by Chiara F.