Conformity to the Will of God.
“Not my will, but Thine be done.” — St. Matt. 36:39
EIGHTEENTH DAY.
How beautiful it is to see one divested of all attachments, ready to practice every virtue, to be charitable, sweet with everyone, equally calm in consolations or in tribulations, always satisfied if the will of God be done. — St. Francis of Sales.
This saint paints himself in the above portrait without being conscious of it. Not even a thread held him to any created thing; had it been the case, he would have cut it instantly. Knowing that time was given him only to do acts of virtue, he seized every occasion to put them in practice, particularly charity, which was his favorite virtue. Although of a lively disposition, he was never heard to say a harsh word; all his conversation was seasoned with much sweetness, ever careful to watch over himself, that he might not fail in that virtue of mildness, so rare among those who have the charge of many affairs. He would say that it mattered little to him whether he performed one duty or another, provided he did the will of God. It was his equanimity of temper, his unalterable sweetness, his great charity for his neighbor, his continual union with God, to Whom he always submitted himself, Whom he loved so tenderly, and Whom he desired so ardently to see loved, that made him so dear to God and to man.
Prayer:
My God, grant that I may not be attached to anything created. I renounce all disorderly affections. Grant that, being detached from all, I may always do with joy what Thou wilt.