If we wish to make any progress in the service of God we must begin every day of our life with new eagerness. We must keep ourselves in the presence of God as much as possible and have no other view or end in all our actions but the divine honor.

Be sure that you first preach by the way you live. If you do not, people will notice that you say one thing, but live otherwise, and your words will bring only cynical laughter and a derisive shake of the head.

– St. Charles Borromeo

Almighty God, you have generously made known to human beings the mysteries of your life through Jesus Christ your Son in the Holy Spirit. Enlighten our minds to know these mysteries which your Church treasures and teaches. Move our hearts to love them and our will to live in accord with them. Give us the ability to teach this Faith to others without pride, without ostentation, and without personal gain. Let us realize that we are simply your instrument for bringing others to the knowledge of the wonderful things you have done for all your creatures. Help us to be faithful to this task that you have entrusted to us. Amen.

- Adapted from a prayer of St. Charles Borromeo