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August 24, 2006
"Friends of Christ"
from The Way of Perfection, 1.3
St. Teresa of Avila
O my redeemer, my heart cannot bear these thoughts without becoming terribly grieved. What is the matter with Christians nowadays? Must it always be those who owe you the most who afflict you? Those for whom you performed the greatest works, those you have chosen for your friends, with whom you walk and commune by means of your sacraments? Aren't they satisfied with the torments you have suffered for them?
Who knew she could see so far into the future and see my life and my conduct? But praise God that she did and she could raise for me the warning flag--look how I treat Him! Look at what I do each day and ask, "How does that give Him honor?" And the truth is, it does not. Day by day I find my ways to avoid being a friend to Him here below and in his heavenly home.
But He doesn't care. I come straggling along, and He is leaping with joy to see me. He leaves the party of the Saints to bring me in. Every time. Every single time. I am transformed, I am broken and renewed. Every time. What grace--words fail, so St. Teresa may speak for me. And while I grieve for my sins and for my treatment of Him, I rejoice in knowing how He loves me nevertheless.
Posted by Steven Riddle at August 24, 2006 10:15 PM
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Comments
Thank you!
Posted by: Teresa Polk at August 25, 2006 12:26 AM
Amen. You are reading my thoughts this morning, Steven.
Posted by: Katherine at August 25, 2006 1:40 PM