May 22: Saint Rita
Saint Rita was forced by her parents to marry a young noble, who brutalized her for a long time. In the end she tamed and loved him. When he was murdered eighteen years later, she mourned him greatly. As soon as their sons were old enough to bear arms, they resolved to avenge their father's death. As she was unable to convince them this was wrong, she prayed to God to let them die in the state of grace. This wonderful grace was granted to her.
What better example of a true mother, than this Saint, who wanted only one thing, that her children go to heaven. Although she was widowed at thirty and soon after lost her sons, she was far more blessed, because her sons were in heaven, as was probably her husband although we do not know. (Since he had long before given up the mortal sin of wife abuse, it is probable he had returned to the state of grace and to being a good father.)
Vengeance is mine, sayeth the Lord, (Hebrews 10:30). This saying should be remembered by all of us. We all seek revenge for the least little injury. We even seek revenge for those things which are not injuries. For instance, when a person warns us that we are a sinner, we seek to revenge ourselves against this person, when we should thank him for his concern! Let us remember to leave vengeance to God and live so as not to cause Him to take vengeance against us.
PRAYER: Saint Rita, inspire all mothers to have the same resolve you did, that your children should die in the state of grace. Amen.
