Virtue of Simplicity – Nineteenth Day of July

Simplicity.

“Be simple as doves.” — St. Matt. 10:16.

NINETEENTH DAY.

There is a kind of simplicity which makes one close the eyes to all sentiments of nature and of human reason, to fix them always upon the maxims of faith, and to make them constantly the rule of our actions. In all our words, actions, thoughts, and affairs, in every place and at every time, to consult faith, to do nothing but from its dictation — this is true simplicity. — St. Vincent de Paul.

“Perform all you actions before your tomb,” said a servant of God. St. Bernard followed this salutary custom. Before acting he asked himself this question: “If I should die in a few moments, would I perform the action I am about to do?”

St. Louis Gonzaga imagined himself upon the brink of eternity, and reflected and examined if what he was about to do would tend to make that eternity happy.

Another, who would lead a holy life, had written this sentence where he might see it continually: “Before performing an action, think of what must follow.”

Another considered without ceasing the present life as a journey which a criminal makes who, hearing his sentence read, proceeds from the prison to the place of execution.

Prayer.

My God grant that I may never lose sight of the holy maxims of faith; that I may consult it without ceasing, and that it be the rule of my conduct.

Total
0
Shares
Total
0
Share