Thought for the Day – 19 October – The Memorial of St Peter of Alcantara OFM (1499-1562)
Everywhere he could do so, he planted crosses, for the Passion of Our Lord was engraved in his heart.
Wherever they were to be placed, even on mountains and however heavy they might be, he went to the destined sites carrying them on his shoulders. From these heights he would then preach the mysteries of the Cross, afterwards remaining in prayer there. Shepherds saw him several times in the air, at the height of the highest trees of the forests.
Never did he go anywhere except on foot, even in his old age. He was often seen prostrated before a large crucifix, shedding torrents of tears and he was found in ecstasy once at the height of the traverse of a crucifix.
The goal was following Christ in ever greater purity of heart. Whatever obstructed that path could be eliminated with no real loss. If men do not go about barefoot now, nor undergo sharp penances as Saint Peter did, there remain many ways of trampling on the spirit of the world and Our Lord teaches them, when He finds in souls the necessary courage.
AnaStpaul 