From whatever quarter, or cause, evil assails you, let your first care be employed about yourself. Be not overcome of evil, and stand on your defence; but go not unarmed to a certain conflict. Insinuate humility one to another, but specially let the breastplate of Christian love sit close on your heart in dealing with other's failings. The time to rebuke is when we love, and this is also and most true, when we contend for our religion, and against its adversaries, or those who molest us on account of it. Endeavour to arm yourself with the same mind that was in Jesus, who, when he was reviled did not revile; when he suffered, he threatened not. It may be well to wait till an interval of calm takes place, and then expostulate with your annoyers. There is an unkind and taunting way of speaking to persons who evidently set light by religion and its duties which increases irritation and offence. Spiritual weapons are dangerous when wielded by a hasty hand. The servant of the Lord must not wrangle, but be mild towards all men, apt to teach, patient; with modesty admonishing them that resist the truth. You complain of being taunted with your attendance at God's house, and its services, and with the observances and requirements of your Church. Much of the remedy for this is in discovering to such with quiet perseverance, that good will to man, which was so manifested in Christ, when God sent His Son into the world that we might live through Him. Your own experience of this blessed truth, this gospel of salvation, will greatly assist you to bring opponents under its guiding and sanctifying influence. Will it not be good to win them over?
- text taken from Daily Bread - Bring a Few Morning Meditations for the Use of Catholic Christians by Father Richard Waldo Sibthorp