These words are from Benedict’s last public letter
and are worth our reflection as we pray for him…
“Soon I will stand before the ultimate judge of my life.
Although in looking back on my long life
I may have much cause for fear and dread,
I have nevertheless a joyful spirit because I firmly trust
that the Lord is not only the righteous judge,
but, at the same time, the friend and brother
who has already suffered my inadequacies himself
and therefore, as judge, is at the same time my advocate.
Looking at the hour of judgment,
the grace of being a Christian thus becomes clear to me.
Being a Christian gives me knowledge
and, moreover, friendship with the judge of my life
and enables me to cross the dark door of death with confidence.
In this regard, I am constantly reminded
of what John recounts at the beginning of Revelation.
He sees the Son of Man in all his greatness and falls to his feet, as dead.
But He, laying His right hand upon him, says to him,
“Do not be afraid. It is I...” (cf. Rev. 1:12-17).”
~ Benedict XVI, in his last public letter
February 6, 2022
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