Presumption, the overconfidence that God will forgive and save us even if we do not put our part, show contrition for our sins and repair for them through conversion, prayer and sacrifice, is an attitude which God denounced.
Sir 5:1-8
Rely not on your wealth; say not: “I have the power.” Rely not on your strength in following the desires of your heart. Say not: “Who can prevail against me?” for the Lord will exact the punishment. Say not: “I have sinned, yet what has befallen me?” for the Lord bides his time. Of forgiveness be not overconfident, adding sin upon sin. Say not: “Great is his mercy; my many sins he will forgive.” For mercy and anger alike are with him; upon the wicked alights his wrath. Delay not your conversion to the Lord, put it not off from day to day.
As seen in the above passage, Our Lord advises us to watch out and reject presumption, which, together with despair, its opposite vice, are sins against the virtue of hope.
Catechism 2092 teaches:
“There are two kinds of presumption. Either man presumes upon his own capacities, (hoping to be able to save himself without help from on high), or he presumes upon God’s almighty power or his mercy (hoping to obtain his forgiveness without conversion and glory without merit.”
Most Holy Trinity, we hope in You. Grant us the gift of contrition and help us extend our hand, putting our part, in order to receive Your Mercy and the gift of Your Salvation.
Holy Mary, our hope, Seat of Wisdom, pray for us.
Fr. Rolly Arjonillo.