Like many Catholics, I accumulated my fair share of holy water over the years. I seemed to have bottles throughout my house in drawers and shelves. I liked the idea of having them but found that rarely, if ever, did I put them to use.
Then came an epiphany, sparked by an approaching cold front. As I hurried out to my garden to throw covers over my plants, it struck me: "If God so clothes the grass of the field which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, how much more will he provide for you?" (Mt 6:30)
I don't just leave my plants out in the wind, cold and hail. I give them something to mitigate the damage. Wouldn't my heavenly Father offer the same and more to me? Maybe he already has and I just haven't been putting it to use.
What is Holy Water?
This is regular water that, through the authority of the Church, is given the power to impart sacramental grace by the blessing of a priest. It's not that God needs the water to bless us, but it is a physical sign that points to a spiritual reality. Calling to mind our baptism where we renounced satan and received the gift of Sanctifying Grace.
Why should we use it?
The devil hates it. Need I go on?
St. Teresa of Avila testifies:
That's why it is used during exorcisms.
You may feel like an exorcism is a little extreme. But the presence of evil does not necessarily mean anyone is possessed nor should it be looked at as superstitious. The devil is real and out to steal our souls, but we can have peace knowing that God is here to fight for us.
When should we us it?
- As strength in times of trial
- As a way to ward off evil
- As a way to reorient your day towards Christ
- As a form of blessingfor your home, children and yes even your garden!
How to start?
If you don't have holy water already, good news - that's an easy fix. Most churches have dedicated holy water dispensers and if not, you can fill from the baptismal font.
Holy water bottles come in a wide variety from ornate bottles to simple plastic ones. In fact, you can really use any container. (As long as it is clearly marked!) That being said, this is blessed by God and choosing a beautiful vessel - though not necessary - shows a level of reverence and respect.
Final thought
It's not the cover itself that protects our plants from the cold, but the heat that comes from the ground. I see holy water working the same way on our souls. When we bless ourselves, it draws us back to rely on our true source of eternal love. And gives him a chance to carry us through a chilly night.