Today was a First Saturday, so I did the First Saturday Devotion. This was requested of us by Mary in the Fatima apparitions. She requested it in reparation for all of the blasphemies and ingratitude of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. For those who participate in 5 consecutive First Saturdays, she promises to assist those who fulfill this devotion at the hour of their death with all the graces necessary for salvation. 

The First Saturday devotion completed during 5 consecutive months must meet the following requirements:

I honestly keep losing track of where I am in the process, but it doesn’t matter much to me because I enjoy the devotion and plan to participate in every First Saturday. Today, however, I was tempted to stay back and just go to church tomorrow (Sunday). But I usually know what’s behind these temptations. And it usually goes away after I ignore it and head out the door. I’ve come to the conclusion that the stronger the temptation is, it’s likely that the graces are too.

Today’s devotion went like any other with one exception. I usually use a prayer aide to help with the meditation on the mysteries of the Rosary. This time I did it a little differently. I took advice from Gabi After Hours and allowed myself to invite God and Mary into the meditation. I went through the mysteries and it was so peaceful and so fruitful. I knew this was a prayer would please God – because He and His Mother were right there with me – closer than ever.

When you grow in faith, you grow in recognizing the mysteries of the faith. And I always knew and treated the Eucharist as it should be – it is Jesus, present in the Eucharist. But this time, after the devotion when it was time for Communion during Mass, I approached the Eucharist in line as always. As I got closer, a quick reaction happened within me. (Maybe my soul was reacting). I thought, “Oh wow. I’m going to meet Jesus. He’s right THERE.” I tell you the excitement was so overwhelming. I had to quickly get myself together so that I could receive reverently. But what an interesting experience. It was definitely a blessing and a grace – one that I would have missed out on if I listened to that nagging temptation. I thank God for the confirmation of making the right choice.

What little graces have you received lately? Comment below. I’d love to hear about them!