Hitherto we have been speaking of the means of reaching the end for which we were created and in which alone we shall find true and lasting satisfaction. We now come to the cause of our failure, and the obstacles in our way.

There is only one obstacle in our way, only one real hindrance to our progress towards happiness and peace, only one barrier between us and God. This obstacle is sin. As long as it remains it is an insuperable obstacle. A single unrepented mortal sin will shut me out for ever from the presence of God. A single unatoned venial sin will prevent me from attaining happiness until the debt has been paid.

What do we mean by sin? We mean any conscious violation of the law of God. Whenever we do that which God has declared to be a serious offence against Him, we become the enemies of God, we forfeit all hope of Heaven, except in so far as God of His free compassion may afterwards give us the grace to repent and be forgiven. Have I ever thus lost sight of God and of Heaven? And if so, am I sure that I have regained His love?

Why is sin so terrible? Because it is an outrage on a God of infinite holiness, of infinite majesty. Because it is an act of ingratitude to One Who has laden us with benefits, Who loves us with a love that surpasses all bound or measure; because it is a deliberate rejection of the Divine friendship, and, as far as we are concerned, for ever.

Pray for a hatred and detestation of sin.