Thought for the Day – 12 August – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
CHARITY
Meditations for a Month
The Joy of Charity
“Charity rejoiceth in the Truth”
Everything which is done to promote the cause of truth, is a source of sincere joy to those who have, in their hearts, the spirit of true charity. It matters not whether the success is due to their own efforts, or those of others; they are always happy at the advance of truth and the defeat of error.
How do I testify my joy when truth prevails, when heresy is crushed, when souls are converted to God?
Do I say a Te Deum or Magnificat, or thank God with all my heart on these joyful occasions?
Charity also finds pleasure in the truth being known. It has no wish to conceal anything. Those who have it in their hearts, make no attempt to hide the truth concerning themselves. They are willing to be known as they really are, with all their defects and imperfections. They are even happy their faults should be manifested, as far as the manifestation tends to the glory of God and the edification of their neighbour.
I will examine myself to see what progress I have made in charity.
Do I rejoice in the truth being known about myself, even in matters which may humble my pride?
Do I rejoice in the truth when I find, I have misjudged or misunderstood my neighbours and they are very different from that which I thought them to be and, far better than myself? Do I rejoice in the truth when I am shown to be incorrect in some opinion and when, others rectify me?
Do I rejoice in the truth when I am brought, face-to-face with my own weakness and nothingness and find that I cannot trust in myself but have to trust in God alone?
AnaStpaul 