Confessions - Book IX - Chapter XI
St. Augustine reflects on the profound spiritual lessons learned through his mother's final moments and the importance of remembering loved ones in the Lord.
In this biographical sermon, St. Augustine recounts the poignant final moments of his mother, Monica, emphasizing the spiritual lessons found in her faith and her request to be remembered in the Lord. Augustine explores themes of suffering, hope, and the Christian approach to death, encouraging believers to trust in God's providence and to honor the memory of loved ones through prayer. This sermon offers a profound reflection on faith amidst grief and the eternal hope found in Christ.
Text
27. I do not well remember what reply I made to her about this. However, it was scarcely five days later--certainly not much more--that she was prostrated by fever. While she was sick, she fainted one day and was for a short time quite unconscious. We hurried to her, and when she soon regained her senses, she looked at me and my brother[301] as we stood by her, and said, in inquiry, \"Where was I?\" Then looking intently at us, dumb in our grief, she said, \"Here in this place shall you bury your mother.\" I was silent and held back my tears; but my brother said something, wishing her the happier lot of dying in her own country and not abroad. When she heard this, she fixed him with her eye and an anxious countenance, because he savored of such earthly concerns, and then gazing at me she said, \"See how he speaks.\" Soon after, she said to us both: \"Lay this body anywhere, and do not let the care of it be a trouble to you at all. Only this I ask: that you will remember me at the Lord\\
Sermon Outline
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I
- The sudden illness and spiritual insight of Augustine's mother
- Her request to be remembered in the Lord
- The contrast between earthly concerns and spiritual hope
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II
- The significance of prayer for the departed
- Understanding Christian hope beyond death
- The role of faith during times of grief
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III
- Reflection on personal loss and spiritual growth
- Encouragement to trust God's providence
- Living a life that honors the memory of loved ones
Key Quotes
“Here in this place shall you bury your mother.” — St. Augustine
“Lay this body anywhere, and do not let the care of it be a trouble to you at all.” — St. Augustine
“Only this I ask: that you will remember me at the Lord.” — St. Augustine
Application Points
- Trust God's providence even in times of grief and loss.
- Remember and pray for loved ones who have passed away.
- Focus on eternal hope rather than earthly concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Augustine's mother and why is she significant?
Augustine's mother, Monica, was a devout Christian whose faith deeply influenced Augustine's spiritual journey.
What does Augustine mean by 'remember me at the Lord'?
He refers to praying and keeping the memory of loved ones alive through faith in Christ.
How does this sermon address suffering?
It highlights how suffering can lead to deeper faith and reliance on God's hope.
What is the main takeaway about death in this sermon?
Death is not to be feared but embraced with Christian hope and trust in eternal life.
How can listeners apply this message today?
By praying for those who have passed and trusting God's providence in times of loss.