For a person in a state of grace, a good examination of conscience, in and of itself, strengthens her relationship with God, but receiving the sacrament of reconciliation will greatly multiply the effects. The efficacy of the sacrament is rooted in our social nature, the gift from God by which give and receive love. The social dimension of reconciliation presents a challenge, however, since confessing our sins to a priest will heighten our sense of guilt. Guilt can indeed be painful, but it is actually a blessing. Guilt is the heartfelt recognition that I have done wrong, and a  powerful motivator to change for the future. I can avoid the feeling of guilt by avoiding the sacrament, but my motivation for change will remain weak, and worse, what guilt I have already within me, may never be come into the light for healing. Another benefit of reconciliation is the freedom of hearing from God’s appointed representative that I am absolved from my sins. Additionally, I will receive encouragement from the priest, and advice if needed, and my penance will renew my appreciation of God’s love for me. Why confess, though, if we are just going to sin again in the future? It is true that we will likely fall into sin again; however, if we sincerely seek improvement, we can be confident that the grace of the sacrament, combined with our daily efforts, will lead us gradually away from sin and ever closer to God.