Conformity to the Will of God.
“Not my will, but Thine be done.” — St. Matt. 36:39
Second Day.
We deceive ourselves greatly if we think that union with God consists in ecstasies, ravishments, and spiritual consolations. It consists alone in thinking, saying, doing that which is in conformity to the will of God. This union is perfect when our will is detached from everything, attached but to God in such a manner that it breathes but His pure will. This is the true and essential union that I ardently desire, and continually ask of Our Lord.— Teresa.
St. Teresa was in a continual state of astonishment at the great happiness of man in being able to unite himself to his Creator, and the great desire of God to see us united to Him.
St. Francis de Sales never ceased to admire in St. John the Baptist his perfect conformity to the will of God. “The holy precursor,” said he, “dwelt twenty-four years in the desert, and God alone knew the great love he had for the Savior from the time he was sanctified in his mother’s womb, and the longing he had to enjoy His presence; nevertheless, he remained so devoted to his work, doing the will of God, that he quitted it but once to see Him. Having baptized Him, he did not remain among His followers, but continued to exercise the ministry confided to him. O God, what is this, if it be not to hold one’s spirit detached from all, and attached to the will of God alone! This example delights me, overwhelms me with its grandeur.”
Prayer.
My God, I will fix my thoughts upon Thy good pleas¬ ure alone, to unite myself to Thee with love. Nothing shall be more agreeable to me than to do Thy holy will