“If you live according to the flesh, you shall die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the flesh, you shall live.” (Romans 8:13)
In this sermon for the Eighth Sunday after Pentecost, we are reminded that the Christian life rests upon two indispensable realities: God’s grace and our free cooperation with it. Grace alone does not sanctify without our consent, nor can human effort save us apart from grace. Together they produce the fruits of holiness.
Using the remarkable conversion of St. Louise de Marillac under the guidance of St. Vincent de Paul, this sermon demonstrates how despair, scrupulosity, and self-preoccupation can be transformed into joyful charity through cooperation with God’s grace.
Every Christian will one day render an account before Christ for the gifts, graces, and talents entrusted to them. Will we be found as servants of God—or servants of the flesh?
This timeless homily offers practical encouragement for overcoming discouragement, anxiety, spiritual trials, and self-centeredness while embracing the life of the Spirit.
“Grace and free will must work together.”
0:00 Romans 8: Living according to the Spirit
1:02 Two powers of the Christian life: Grace and free will
1:48 Servants of God vs. servants of sin
2:20 Men of the Spirit and men of the flesh
2:37 Giving an account before God
3:03 St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac
4:18 Scruples, guilt, and spiritual anguish
4:50 St. Vincent’s unexpected rebuke
6:18 A complete transformation through charity
7:15 Founding the Daughters of Charity
8:14 Cooperating with grace today
8:43 Applying the lesson in religious life
9:25 Bringing forth works pleasing to Christ
9:50 Sponsor: iCatholic Mobile
10:10 Download the Sensus Fidelium App
