The gift of fear of the Lord

From the Novena to the Holy Spirit (Pentecost Novena)

Sacred Scripture: Proverbs 9:10; Isaiah 11:2-3

Meditation for Day 2

The second day asks for the gift of fear of the Lord — not a servile fear of punishment, but the filial reverence of a child for a beloved Father. It is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10) and the foundation on which the other gifts rest.

The Catechism teaches that this gift moves the soul to avoid sin not because of its consequences but because sin offends the One who is most loved.

Daily Novena Prayer (recited every day)

Veni Sancte Spiritus (Come, Holy Spirit)

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth. O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

This is the traditional collect for Pentecost, found in the Roman Missal and used as the daily closing of the novena.