Because Holy Week, the Triduum, the Easter octave, the Easter season, and Pentecost are tremendous opportunities to grow in holiness, Satan will try to rob us of these special days with the Lord. Satan is well aware that we have been planning for some time to reject him, all his works, and all his empty promises. Satan wants to make us his slaves through sin and make a mockery of the renewal of our baptismal promises. He wants to ruin Holy Week, Easter, and life for each of us.

To manipulate us into being his pawns, he will put more pressure on us. Our friends may denounce us (Jer 20:10), try to trap us (Jer 20:10) and persecute us (Jer 20:11). We will carry the cross with Jesus (Lk 9:23) and be crucified with Him (Gal 2:19). This can backfire on Satan by making us closer to Jesus as we share in His sufferings (see Phil 3:10). Or, through our selfishness and fear, we can succumb to Satan's bribes and intimidation.

"Therefore submit to God; resist the devil and he will take flight. Draw close to God, and He will draw close to you" (Jas 4:7-8). "Stay sober and alert. Your opponent the devil is prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, solid in your faith, realizing that the brotherhood of believers is undergoing the same sufferings throughout the world" (1 Pt 5:8-9).

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Ralph J. Lawrence, December 9, 2000

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 12, 2000