St. Alphonsus writes that either we shall face the Tribunal of God with fearing and trembling, hating our life and being aware of our sins, or without a care in the world, having fallen into complacency.
He also notes that if we continually fall into our old patterns of sin over and over again, instead of seeking perfection, facing Christ will be more painful.
The warning this saint gives as to not testing the patience of Christ must be heeded.
How many times have I walked away from grace? How many times have I chosen comfort over suffering?
How many times have I decided on my way rather than God's Way?
We shall see all these missed opportunities in our particular judgement. At the final judgement, everyone else will know the sins of omission and commission we have committed.
I am sure that if we each pray to Mary, Our Lady Mother, she will plead for us as well at the time of judgment.
In iconography, Christ with the open book is the Teacher. Christ with the closed book is the Judge.
While the book is open, pray and become perfect.
To be continued....
