The Sanctification of Our Actions.
“He hath done all things well.” — St. Matt. 7:37.
FIFTH DAY.
Study not to appear singular, but to be truly so. We become so by leading a common life, but not in a common manner. One must do what is required very exactly, that is in the place, manner, and the time prescribed. We must do for God common things in the most perfect manner. Not to be singular in the exterior, to be so interiorly, this is a great virtue, a treasure. — St. Bernard.
It was a beautiful eulogy on this saint when it was said of him that he was not ordinary in ordinary actions. Erat in ordinaris, non ordinarius. Grace was the principle of his actions, charity the motive; he performed them in the presence of God, animated with great fervor.
There could be no one more punctual than St. Francis of Sales, not only in public, on the altar, or in the choir, where he observed with most perfect fidelity the least ceremonies, but particularly when he recited the divine office, or acquitted himself of his other duties.
Prayer.
My God, grant that I be agreeable to Thee in all my actions. I will do none unless grace be the principle and charity the motive. I will do all in Thy presence, practicing interior mortification and zeal for souls.