Wednesday, May 25, 2011

On Accepting Our Weaknesses and Imperfections- St. Therese of Lisieux

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The following is from an excellent book entitled the Complete Spiritual Doctrine of St. Therese of Lisieux by Father Francois Jamart. Unless noted, quotes are by Fr. Francois Jamart.

"...If, after committing a fault we accept the humiliation that follows it, this merits for us an increase of love."

On the weaknesses of saints: "They accept themselves the way they are and make use of their imperfections to raise themselves nearer to God."

"I have many weaknesses...but I am never astonished because of them...for example, I might be inclined t worry about some silly thing I have said or done. I then recollect myself for a moment and say 'alas, I am still at the point from which I started.' but I say this with great peace and without sadness." - St. Therese

"...If I am humble, I am entitled without offending the good Lord, to do small foolish things until I die."

"What would become of me? What would I be able to accomplish if I were to rel on my own powers alone."..."do what you can to detach your heart from earthly cares and especially from creatures, and then feel certain that Jesus will do the rest." - St. Therese

St. Therese affirms that God always grants the graces that are necessary to overcome all obstacles when we have recourse to Him.

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