Just as John [the Baptist] came before Jesus, so penance comes before grace, before that grace of reconciliation which receives us into the kiss of peace after we have made satisfaction. For in this way of penance righteousness and peace kiss each other and run with eager and lighthearted step to meet him. The righteousness, that is, of the person who does penance and the peace of God who forgives; both celebrate with a holy kiss the happy and joyful pact of reconciliation.
Guerric of Igny
