92. Why do we
postpone the time of pardon for those who have mortified themselves,
who during life have done themselves to death?
“Sufficient,” says St. Paul, “to such a one is this
punishment which is inflicted by the many; so that contrariwise, ye
should rather forgive him and comfort him, lest by any means he should
be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.” 2 Cor. ii. 6. If the punishment which is
inflicted by the many is sufficient for condemnation, the intercession
which is made by many is also sufficient for the remission of
sin. The Master of morals, Who both knows our weakness and is the
interpreter of the will of God, wills that comfort should be given,
lest sorrow through the weariness of long delay should swallow up the
penitent.