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The Imitation of Christ, Book 3: On Inward Consolation, no. 114, Chapter 17 summary

Book 3: On Inward Consolation, no. 114, Chapter 17 of 115 · 3 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 17, the disciple longs to receive Christ in Communion with the devotion of the saints, offering his whole self despite his unworthiness. He invokes Mary and John the Baptist as examples, calls others to praise God, and asks those receiving the Sacrament to remember him.

What happens

  1. The disciple asks to receive the Lord with the strongest love and reverence shown by holy people.
  2. Acknowledging his unworthiness, he offers his entire self and recalls the Virgin Mary’s humble acceptance of the Angel’s message.
  3. He recalls John the Baptist’s joy and humility, then offers the devotion of others alongside his own.
  4. He calls heavenly spirits and faithful people to join his continual thanksgiving and praise.
  5. He prays for those receiving the Sacrament and asks them to remember his need.

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What does the disciple ask of those refreshed by receiving the Sacrament?

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