Blue Book #37
c. How much of the human there is in your desires! It is necessary that I, in a motherly way, purify you, if you want me to lead you to that perfection which is pleasing to my Heart.
This dying to self to make room for God is painful. But dedication is seen in pain. There is a radiance emanating from that pain which disperses the shadows in another’s face. That is the essence of our vocation–to burn with love, to be a light, to be a fire. And we cannot start a fire with green wood. The fire of love of God will not take hold in a soul that is not utterly dedicated to him.
Grace in Every Season (February 21)
This purification process is SO hard. Just when we think we’ve given our all, He shows us another area that we are still clinging to our own wills on. It could be good things… and most likely are… but if they aren’t according to God’s will for us at this time in our lives, then they must be released.
In todays First Reading We hear “Accept whatever befalls you, when sorrowful, be steadfast, and in crushing misfortune be patient; For in fire gold and silver are tested, and worthy people in the crucible of humiliation. Trust God and God will help you; trust in him, and he will direct your way; keep his fear and grow old therein.”
What a perfect Lenten plan…