How to Converse With God

by Alfonso María de Liguori

So whenever you fall into some sin, raise your eyes at once to God, make an act of love and, while acknowledging your sin, confidently hope for pardon and say to Him: " 'Lord, he whom Thou lovest is sick' (John 11:3); the heart which You love is sick and covered with sores: 'O Lord . . . heal my soul, for I have sinned against Thee.' " (Ps. 40:5). Say: 'You go about seeking repentant sinners: behold one of them at Your feet, seeking You. The evil is done: what am I to do? You will not have me lose heart. Even though I have sinned, You wish me well, and I am sorry for the displeasure I have caused You. I propose not to do it again. You who are that God 'who is gracious and merciful: patient and plenteous in mercy' (Ps. 144:8), forgive me. Let me hear the words You once spoke to Magdalen: 'Thy sins are forgiven thee' (Luke 7:48), and give me strength to be faithful in the future."