TEMPERANCE
Definition:
Enables one to be moderate in the pleasure and use of created goods
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, You surround me with good things.
I ask for the grace to use Your gifts rightly, allowing
You to control my desires for the things You put into my life.
Amen.
SAINT
St. Mark Ji Tianxiang
When we struggle with temperance, St. Mark Ji is an excellent intercessor to turn to. Mark Ji was a Catholic husband, father, and doctor. While treating himself for a serious illness, he became addicted to the opium that he was using for treatment. Addiction to opium was considered highly shameful. Moreover, it barred Ji from receiving the sacraments. Despite the fact that he was unable to receive Communion, Mark Ji faithfully attended Mass, humbly submitting to what was required of him. He struggled with his addiction throughout his life.In the year 1900, the Boxer Rebellion broke out. The Boxers tried to rid China of all foreign influences, including Catholicism. Mark Ji continued to boldly practice his faith. Arrested with his family and herded to jail, where he knew he would die a martyr, Mark Ji asked to be executed last, so none of his family would have to die alone.
PRACTICING TEMPERANCE:
- Being centered in the heart of God, confident in the Father’s love and letting all your thoughts and actions flow from that relationship of trust.
- Treasuring friendship with God as a relationship to be nourished and protected.
- Exercising balance and self-control of your desires, weighing whether they lead you to or away from God.
- Living humbly, profoundly aware that all your gifts come from God, with a meekness toward others and purity of heart in action.
SCRIPTURE:
1 CORINTHIANS 9:25
Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one.”
The Gift of Fear of the Lord perfects the virtue of Temperance and its related virtues.
Take a trip through the world of the virtues with the Virtue Field Guide
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