Chapter II.
In baptism, the condition of the human person is a source of admiration for the angels themselves; for through it, one is restored to the grace of innocence and youthfulness.
It follows that you come to the altar. You have begun to come: the angels looked on, they saw you coming, and suddenly they saw that human condition, which before was smeared with the dark filth of sins, shining forth. And so they said: Who is this that comes up from the desert, white as snow? (Song of Songs 8:5) Therefore the angels marvel. Do you want to know why they marvel? Listen then to the Apostle Paul saying that things have been revealed to us that the angels desire to see. (1 Peter 1:12) And again: What no eye has seen, nor ear heard . . . . . what God has prepared for those who love him (1 Corinthians 2:9).
Then recognize what you have received. Saint David the prophet saw and desired this grace in figure. Do you want to know why he desired it? Hear again the saying: You shall sprinkle me with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed: You shall wash me, and I shall be made whiter than snow (Ps. 50:9). Why? Because snow, although it is white, quickly becomes blackened and corrupted by some dirt: this grace that you have received, if you hold onto what you have received, will be lasting and perpetual.
So, you came desiring to approach the altar, since you had seen such great grace; you came desiring to approach the altar, where you would receive the sacrament. Let your soul say: I will go in to the altar of my God, to God who gives joy to my youth (Psalm 42:4). You have cast off the old age of sins, you have taken on the youthfulness of grace; this is what the heavenly sacraments have accomplished for you. Lastly, hear again what David says: Your youth will be renewed like the eagle's (Psalm 103:5). You have begun to be a good eagle, who seek heaven; you despise earthly things. Good eagles around the altar: Where the body is, there the eagles will be (Matthew 24:28). The form of the body is the altar, and the body of Christ is on the altar: you are the eagles, having been renewed by the cleansing of sin.