The Degrees of Merit
As sanctifying grace is the source, so it is to a great extent the measure of merit. The diversities of this grace constitute the real differences between men, and arrange them into classes and hierarchies like the angels. A more complete habitual state of grace gives a so much greater spiritual intensity and value to the works arising from it. Two persons doing precisely the same act may have a very different merit for it So too it is in another sphere: the day's work of a highly cultivated man is more highly recompensed than the physical toil of the labourer. Thus again the smallest action of the Saviour was more meritorious than all the virtues, and efforts, and heroism of the whole human race together. Hence the greatness of the Blessed Virgin's merits beyond all others, though she was not called to the active or suffering life of Apostles and Martyrs. Hence it is that the saints of God enjoy a greater power of impetration and satisfaction by prayers and sufferings than ordinary Christians. This was the case with Mary Magdalene: "Many sins are forgiven her because she hath loved much" (Luke vii. 47). As the value of human works is greater here, so is their reward more glorious hereafter; everything is higher and better with the greater abundance of sanctifying grace. "To every one that hath shall be given, and he shall abound" (Matt. xxv. 29). Esteem the value of actions, not according to the natural ability or energy in them, nor even solely according to the good intention from which they proceed, but primarily according to the sanctifying grace or Spirit of God which moves them.
