August 2nd Fast

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JMJ

". . . I feel called to the Priesthood and to the Apostolate—I would be a Martyr, a Doctor of the Church. I should like to accomplish the most heroic deeds. . .

My eyes fell on the 12th and 13th chapters of the First Epistle to the Corinthians. I read that all cannot become Apostles, Prophets, and Doctors; that the Church is composed of different members; that the eye cannot also be the hand. The answer was clear, but it did not fulfill my desires, or give to me the peace I sought. . .

Without being discouraged I read on, and found comfort in this counsel: "Be zealous for the better gifts. And I show unto you a yet more excellent way." The Apostle then explains how all perfect gifts are nothing without Love, that Charity is the most excellent way of going surely to God. At last I had found rest. . .

I understood that love embraces all vocations, that it is all things, and that it reaches out through all the ages, and to the uttermost limits of the earth, because it is eternal.  Then, beside myself with joy, I cried out: "O Jesus, my Love, at last I have found my vocation. My vocation is love! "

(St. Thérèse of Lisieux, Story of a Soul)

 In striving to lead a holy life we can often get distracted by the vexing problem of constant comparison.    Whether this leads to pride or jealousy is of no consequence as both are equally damaging to our soul and our vocation.  God has given each man certain graces and gifts, pertaining to his particular calling.  If a man begins to compare his life, it may lead to complacency or despair.  He may feel that he is far above the rest and need not do any more than others in his state in life, or he may give in to despair believing that it is useless to strive for perfection when he falls so short of it, and others seemingly attain it. But less we become disheartened when these most frustrating and natural proposals pop into our mind, we should look to the saints for their witness when comparisons creep into our thoughts.

One of the most beautiful attributes that is apparent in all the saints is their obvious simplicity.  They understood their uniqueness, and therefore accepted their task most readily, knowing it could be done by no one else.  They only compared themselves to others when looking to grow in holiness, and for no other reason.  They were certain of their particular call, and confident in the grace they would receive to fulfill it.

Yet, what led to the peace that resided in the souls of the saints was their great love.  It cannot be overstated that love cloaked their every deed.  They could not bring themselves to jealous or envious thoughts because, as Blessed Mother Teresa said, "all [was] for Jesus."  Whether crosses were given or blessings poured forth, it was no matter, all was done for the love of Christ.  And because they loved Him, they loved all those that He loved: every person they encountered, sinner and saint.  They did not think whether one deserved less or more, for they knew themselves they we all deserve nothing, and yet have been given the chance at the most important thing: eternal happiness.

When we must swat away the distractions that constantly cloud our minds, let us do as St. Francis de Sales suggested and make Acts of Love to God.  Let us rejoice in His blessings for others, let us be grateful for the blessings He has given us, and let us above all love Him in the vocation He has called us to.