Articles of Faith
Thomas Aquinas is rather known for his intellectual approach to theological topics. However, in his catechetical works such as the Commentary to the Apostles’ Creed, he explains the articles of faith with the simplicity of a true believer and with the devotion of a small child. Here is an example. The saint describes that faith is necessary for anyone to be a true Christian, and then he goes on to telling us the effects of faith in us, which he illustrates with Bible quotes:
Effects of Faith In Us
The first is that through faith the soul is united to God, and by it there is between the soul and God a union like marriage. “I will espouse you in faith” (Hosea 2:20). … And “Without faith it is impossible to please God” (Heb 11:6).
The second effect of faith is that eternal life is already begun in us; for eternal life is nothing else than knowing God. This the Lord announced when He said: “This is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you sent.” (Jn 17:3). This knowledge of God begins here through faith, but it is perfected in the future life when we shall know God as He is… No one then can arrive at perfect happiness of heaven, which is the true knowledge of God, unless first she or he knows God through faith. “Blessed are they who have not seen and have believed” (Jn 20:29).
The third good that comes from faith is that right direction which it gives to our present life… Faith teaches us all that is necessary to live a good life… “The just man lives by faith” (Hab 2:4) …
The fourth effect of faith is that by it we overcome temptations: “The holy ones by faith conquered kingdoms” (Heb 11:33) … We see from this that it is very necessary to have faith.
Incarnation
When saint Thomas expands on these articles of faith, for instance, on the Word of God, he reminds us that we must not only believe in the Son of God but also in His Incarnation.
For us Catholics, what is the best paradigm to follow when it comes to faith? No doubt it is our blessed Mother. Thomas, a great theologian but fond of our Lady like a small child, says that Mary, when she gave birth to the Word of God: first, she heard what was said to her: “The Holy Spirit shall come upon you” (Lk 1:35). Then she gave her consent through faith: “Behold the handmaid of the Lord” (Lk 1:38). And she also received and carried the Word in her womb. Then, she brought forth the Word of God and, finally, she nourished and cared for Him.
Through our faith, we can imitate the spiritual attitude of the Blessed Virgin in our lives, and thus, make our faith in her Son real and fruitful as She did through her fidelity to God.
God bless you all.
Glad you liked it. God bless you,
Fr. Marcelo
Very educational. I love it. Thanks