Day 22: Piety (Gift of the Holy Spirit)

Matthew 6:5-6 And whenever you pray, do not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand
and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, so that they may be seen by
others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But whenever you pray, go into
your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father
who sees in secret will reward you.

“If you desire that devotion be born in your spirit and that the love of God
and the desire for divine things increase, cleanse your soul of every desire, attachment,
and ambition in such a way that you have no concern about anything. The soul that is
attached to anything however much good there may be in it, will not arrive at the liberty
of divine union. For whether it be a strong wire rope or a slender and delicate thread
that holds the bird, it matters not, if it really holds it fast; for, until the cord be broken
the bird cannot fly.” – St. John of the Cross

The gift of Piety begets in our hearts a filial affection for God as our most
loving Father. It inspires us to love and respect for His sake persons and things
consecrated to Him, as well as those who are vested with His authority, His Blessed
Mother and the Saints, the Church and its visible Head, our parents and superiors, our
country and its rulers. He who is filled with the gift of Piety finds the practice of his
religion, not a burdensome duty, but a delightful service. Where there is love, there is
no labor. (Prayer for the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit)

How can I use the gift of Piety in my life?

Prayer: Come, O Holy Spirit, possess my heart. Enkindle in me such a love for God, that I
may find satisfaction only in His service and lovingly submit to the Father’s holy will.
Sever any attachments I may have to things of this world so that I may experience total
union with You. Amen.

Scripture declaration:  I pray to my Father in secret, and my Father who sees me will reward me.(based on Mathew 6:6)

• Litany of the Holy Spirit
• 500 Praises to the Holy Spirit (Pray a few of them as you can)

Contributed by: Sandra, John, Olivia, St Louise Parish, RIC4