Practical devotion: the power of the sign of the Cross

The sign of the cross. It is the flag, the card, the sign or badge of the Christian; it is a very short prayer that includes Faith, Hope and Charity, and directs our intentions to God. With the sign of the cross, the SS is expressly invoked and honored. Trinity, and they protest that they believe in it and do everything for her sake; Jesus, who died on the Cross, is invoked and honored, and it is professed that everything is believed and hoped for from Him… And you do it with so much indifference.

Power of the sign of the Cross. The Church uses it on us, as soon as we are born, to put the devil on the run and consecrate us to Jesus; he uses it in the Sacraments, to communicate the Grace of God to us; it begins and ends its ceremonies with it, sanctifying them in the Name of God; with it he blesses our tomb, and on it he places the Cross as if to signify that we will rise through it. In temptations, S. Antonio marked himself; in the sufferings, the martyrs marked themselves and won; in the sign of the cross the emperor Constantine defeated the enemies of the faith. Do you have the habit of marking yourself as soon as you wake up? Do you do it in temptations?

Use of this sign. Today, as you mark yourself frequently, you reflect that crosses are your daily bread; but, endured with patience and for Jesus' sake, they will also exalt you to Heaven. Also meditate, with what devotion, with what frequency you practice the sign of the Cross and if you never leave it out of human respect!… In temptations equip yourself with the sign of the Cross; but be done with Faith!

PRACTICE. - Learn to do it, and well, before prayers and when you enter and leave church (50 days of Indulgence for each time; 100 with holy water)