|
14. Fourteenth Letter - Gratitude, for mercies
to his correspondent, and measure of relief while he has himself
been near death, but with consolation in his suffering. |
|
I give thanks to our Lord for having relieved you a little as you
desired. I have often been near death and I was never so much
satisfied as then. At those times I did not pray for any relief,
but I prayed for strength to suffer with courage, humility, and
love. How sweet it is to suffer with God! However great your
sufferings may be, receive them with love. It is paradise to
suffer and be with Him. If, in this life, we might enjoy the peace
of paradise, we must accustom ourselves to a familiar, humble, and
affectionate conversation with God.
We must hinder our spirits wandering from Him on all occasions. We
must make our heart a spiritual temple so we can constantly adore
Him. We must continually watch over ourselves so we do not do
anything that may displease Him. When our minds and hearts are
filled with God, suffering becomes full of unction and
consolation.
I well know that to arrive at this state, the beginning is very
difficult because we must act purely on faith. But, though it is
difficult, we know also that we can do all things with the grace
of God. He never refuses those who ask earnestly. Knock. Persevere
in knocking. And I answer for it, that, in His due time, He will
open His graces to you. He will grant, all at once, what He has
deferred during many years. Adieu.
Pray to Him for me, as I pray to Him for you. I hope to see Him
soon.
|