Category: QUOTES on PEACE

Posted in "Follow Me", CARMELITES, CHRIST the WORD and WISDOM, FATHERS of the Church, GOD ALONE!, JANUARY month of THE MOST HOLY NAME of JESUS, QUOTES on LOVE, QUOTES on LOVE of GOD, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on PRAYER, QUOTES on SUFFERING, The HOLY NAME, The WORD

Quote/s of the Day – 11 September – ‘Thou alone I have chosen for my whole inheritance …’

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Quote/s of the Day – 11 September – St Protus and St Hyacinth (Died c257) Brother Martyrs – Wisdom 3:1-8, Luke 21:9-19 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“And you shall be hated by all men,
for My Name’s sake.”

Luke 21:17

“If anyone serves Me,
he must follow Me
and where I Am,
there will My servant be too.”

John 12:26

“Pray in the spirit and sentiment of love,
in which the royal Prophet said to Him,
‘Thou, O Lord, art my portion.’
Let others choose to themselves,
portions among creatures,
for my part, Thou art my portion,
Thou alone I have chosen
for my whole inheritance.”

St Augustine of Canterbury (Died c605)
“The Apostle to the English”

“O strong love of God!
I really think, nothing seems impossible,
to one who loves. O happy soul
which has obtained this peace, from its God! ”

St Teresa of Jesus of Avila (1515-1582)
Carmelite Reformer

“Love consists,
not in feeling great things
but, in having great detachment
and in suffering for the Beloved.”

St John of the Cross (1542-1591)
Doctor Mysticus

“Prayer is the inner bath of love
into which the soul plunges itself.”

St Jean-Marie Baptiste Vianney (1786-1859)

Posted in "Follow Me", CHRIST, the WAY,TRUTH,LIFE, DIVINE Mercy, Goodness, Patience, GOD ALONE!, GOD is LOVE, GOOD RESOLUTIONS, JESUIT SJ, PRAYERS of the SAINTS, QUOTES for CHRIST, QUOTES on ALMS, QUOTES on HERESY, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on POVERTY, QUOTES on SANCTITY, QUOTES on SUFFERING, QUOTES on the CHURCH, QUOTES on the POOR, SOLDIERS/ARMOUR of CHRIST, The WILL of GOD

Quote/s of the Day – 31 July – St Ignatius Loyola

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Quote/s of the Day – 31 July – St Ignatius Loyola SJ (1491-1556) Priest, Confessor, Founder, Theologian, Spiritual Writer, Mystic.

“Be generous to the poor orphans
and those in need.
The man to whom our Lord
has been liberal
ought not to be stingy.
We shall one day find in Heaven,
as much rest and joy
as we ourselves have dispensed in this life.”

“If our Church is not marked
by caring for the poor,
the oppressed, the hungry,
we are guilty of heresy!”

“After we experience the great peace
of knowing God’s Love for us
which quiets our anxieties and insecurities,
we find another deep desire stirring within us.
We desire greatness
because we are made for greatness!”

Teach Us Good Lord
By St Ignatius Loyola (1491-1556)

Teach us, good Lord,
to serve Thee as Thou deserves
to give and not
to count the cost,
to fight and not
to heed the wounds,
to toil and not
to seek for rest,
to labour and not
to ask for any reward,
save that of knowing
that we do Thy Will.
Amen

Eternal Lord of All
By St Ignatius Loyola (1491-1556)

Eternal Lord of all things,
I come before Thine Infinite Goodness
and before Thy glorious Mother
and all the Saints of the heavenly court,
to make my offering, with Thy grace and favour,
it is my wish, desire and determination,
provided that it would be
for Thy greater service and praise,
to imitate Thee in suffering injury,
insults and poverty,
actual, as well as spiritual,
should Thine most Holy Majesty
choose to receive me,
in such a way of life.
Amen

St Ignatius Loyola (1491-1556)

Posted in CHRIST the WORD and WISDOM, DOCTORS of the Church, FATHERS of the Church, ONE Minute REFLECTION, QUOTES on MYSTERIES of our FAITH, QUOTES on PEACE, The WORD

One Minute Reflection – 31 July – ‘ … This greeting with its hidden power … is amply sufficient for us all. …’

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One Minute Reflection – 31 July– “The Month of the Most Precious Blood” – St Ignatius Loyola (1491-1556) Confessor – 2 Timothy 2:8-10; 3:10-12; Luke 10:1-9. – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“Into whatever house you enter, first say: Peace be to this house.
And, if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon him but if not, it shall return to you.” – Luke 10:5-7

REFLECTION – “As you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house,‘” (Lk 10:5) so that the Lord Himself might enter and remain there, as with Mary. … This greeting is the Mystery of Faith which shines forth in the world. Through it, enmity is stifled, war is ended and people acknowledge one another. The effect of that greeting was hidden by a veil in spite of the fact that it prefigures the Mystery of the Resurrection … when the light rises and dawn chases night away. From the moment Christ sent out His disciples, people began to give and receive this greeting, a source of healing and blessing. …

This greeting with its hidden power … is amply sufficient for us all. That is why Our Lord sent it out, together with His disciples, as forerunner, so that it might bring about peace and, carried by the voice of the Apostles whom He sent, prepare the way before them. It was sown in every dwelling … it entered into all who heard it, so as to separate and set apart, the children it recognised as its own. It remained in them but it denounced those who were alien to it, for they did not welcome it.

This greeting of peace did not dry up; it began in the Apostles and then sprang up in their brethren, revealing the Lord’s inexhaustible treasures. … Present in those who offered greetings in this way and in those who welcomed the greeting, this announcement of peace was neither diminished nor divided. It announced that the Father is near and is in everyone; it revealed that the Son’s mission is bound up with all, even if its object is to be with His Father. It will not cease to proclaim that images are now brought to completion and Truth will cast all shadows away at last.” – St Ephrem (306-373) Father and Doctor of the Church (Diatessaron 8: 3-4).

PRAYER – O God, Who, to spread abroad the greater glory of Thy Name through St Ignatius, strengthened the Church militant with new power; grant that we ,who are struggling on earth, may, by his help and after his example, be found worthy to be crowned with him in Heaven. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).

Posted in GOD ALONE!, HUMILITY-Fr Richard Clarke, QUOTES on HUMILITY, QUOTES on MEEKNESS, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on PERSEVERANCE, QUOTES on PRIDE, QUOTES on TEMPTATION, QUOTES on the DEVIL/EVIL, QUOTES on VIRTUE

Thought for the Day – 30 July – The Fruit of Humility

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Thought for the Day – 30 July – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)

HUMILITY
Meditations for a Month

The Fruit of Humility

There is nothing which gives such a solid peace as humility. At the beginning it is difficult and we smart under the wounds which our pride has to suffer before it can be destroyed in ourselves.
But a holy perseverance in the practice of humility will spread over the soul such a sweet and calm tranquility that even in this life, the soul begins to taste the joys of the heavenly paradise. Troubles, disappointments, unkindness, injustice, insults, do not disturb the quiet happiness of one, who is really humble. One who is truly humble appreciates, continually, the truth of our Lord’s Words:
“Learn of Me, for I Am meek and humble of heart and you shall find rest for your souls. … For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Humility is also the best possible safeguard against the attacks of the devil. The humble man can say, as our Lord did: “The prince of this world cometh and hath nothing in Me.”
Or as Saint Martin said when dying: “Why art thou here, O evil one? No malice wilt thou find in me.”
Nor has the devil any chance of success in tempting the humble. Their continual disposition is one of dependence on God and, therefore, no temptation has power to lead them astray.

Humility is also the root, from whence all the other virtues spring.
A humble man is always charitable – for he never thinks of himself but always, of doing something for God.
For the same reason, he is full of zeal, he is prudent – for he always relies on God, never on himself; he is a man of prayer because he looks to God for everything; he is pure in heart because he never, in anything, desires to please himself but always to please God.
Are these points of humility to be found in me?

Posted in BLESSED TRINITY PRAYERS, CHRIST the LIGHT, CHRIST the SUN of JUSTICE, CHRIST the WORD and WISDOM, CHRIST, the WAY,TRUTH,LIFE, DIVINE Mercy, Goodness, Patience, franciscan OFM, GOD ALONE!, Our MORNING Offering, PRAYERS of the SAINTS, QUOTES on CONSOLATION, QUOTES on COURAGE, QUOTES on ETERNAL LIFE, QUOTES on FAITH, QUOTES on HOPE, QUOTES on JOY, QUOTES on LOVE of GOD, QUOTES on PEACE, The MOST HOLY REDEEMER, Our SAVIOUR

Our Morning Offering – 18 July – Prayer in Praise of God By St Francis of Assisi

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Our Morning Offering – 18 July – “The Month of the Most Precious Blood”

Prayer in Praise of God
By St Francis of Assisi (c1181-1226)

Thou art Holy, Lord, the only God
and Thine Deeds art wonderful.
Thou art Strong.
Thou art Great.
Thou art the Most High.
Thou art Almighty.
Thou, Holy Father art King of Heaven and earth.
Thou art Three and One, Lord God, all Good.
Thou art Good, all Good, Supreme Good,
Lord God, Living and True.
Thou art Love. Thou art Wisdom.
Thou art Humility. Thou art Endurance.
Thou art Rest. Thou art Peace.
Thou art Joy and Gladness.
Thou art Justice and Moderation.
Thou art all our Riches and Thou art Suffice for us.
Thou art Beauty. Thou art Gentleness.
Thou art our Protector.
Thou art our Guardian and Defender.
Thou art our Courage.
Thou art our Haven and our Hope.
Thou art our Faith, our great Consolation.
Thou art our Eternal Life,
Great and Wonderful Lord, God Almighty,
Merciful Saviour.
Amen

Posted in GOD ALONE!, PATIENCE - Fr Richard CLARKE, QUOTES on PATIENCE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on SELF-DENIAL, QUOTES on SUFFERING, SELF-DISTRUST, The WILL of GOD

Thought for the Day – 10 July – The First Fruit of Patience: – Peace

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Thought for the Day – 10 July – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)

PATIENCE
Meditations for a Month

The First Fruit of Patience: – Peace

  1. We all long after peace; we are anxious, not for inactivity, nor indeed that we should have nothing against which to fight but, for the absence of that conflict within us which is the source of all our misery. It is the struggle, in our own hearts, between two opposing forces of duty and inclination, which troubles and disturbs us. I
    f this struggle is to cease, one of these two forces must be crushed. It is the process of crushing our corrupt inclinations which we dread. We have not the necessary courage, although we know that the only way to peace is to mortify our members which are upon the earth.
    This is the story of my troubles, I have not conquered my lower nature and my self-will!
  2. How is the victory to be gained and peace restored to our hearts?
    It is impossible without suffering. Nothing else has the power to break our proud wills and make us put our stubborn necks beneath the yoke.
    We speak of those who have suffered, as having a chastened look and it always attracts us. There is in suffering a sort of supernatural force which ought to commend it to us, or at least, to reconcile us to it. If I have to suffer, I will think of this and console myself with knowing that God will bring peace and happiness out of it.
  3. But, it is not all suffering which has this wholesome effect but only suffering borne with patience.
    If we are impatient, rebellious, unresigned – our suffering maybe an occasion of fresh trouble, rather than of peace. I must accept it from the Hand of God, if it is to bring with it that quiet tranquillity which I have never yet attained as I fight. I must bow my head and place myself in God’s Hands to suffer, as He pleases, whatever He pleases, as long as He pleases. This is the only road to solid peace!
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One Minute Reflection – 8 July– ‘ … For everything lies in the soul’s inner sanctuary. …’

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One Minute Reflection – 8 July– “The Month of the Most Precious Blood” – St Elizabeth of Portugal TOSF (1271-1336) Widow, Queen – Proverbs 31:10-31; Matthew 13:44-52 – – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure  hidden in a field;
he who finds it, hides it and in his joy, goes and sells all that he has
and buys that field.” – Matthew 13:44

REFLECTION – “In my opinion, it would be unworthy of us to withdraw, even for a moment, from the contemplation of Christ. When we have lost sight of Him, even briefly, let us turn our mind’s regard back to Him, directing the eyes of our heart, as by a very straight line. For everything lies in the soul’s inner sanctuary. There, after the devil has been expelled and the vices no longer reign at all, the Kingdom of God can be established in us, as the Evangelist says: “For amen I say to you that the Kingdom of God is within you.”

But within us there can be nothing else than knowledge or ignorance of the truth and the love, of either the vices, or the virtues, by which we make ready a Kingdom in our hearts, either for the devil or for Christ.

The Apostle Paul also describes the characteristics of this Kingdom when he says: “For the Kingdom of God is not food and drink but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost.” Thus, if the Kingdom of God is within us and the Kingdom of God is itself, righteousness and peace and joy, then, whoever abides in these things, is undoubtedly in the Kingdom of God … Let us lift up the eyes of our soul to that Kingdom which is endless joy!” – St John Cassian (c360-435) Monk, Theologian, Founder of Monasteries, Father of the Church, Disciple of St John Chrysostom (Conferences No 1).

PRAYER – Most merciful God, Who among other admirable gifts, endowed blessed Queen Elizabeth with the special grace of calming the tumult of war; grant by her intercession that, after the peace for which we humbly pray, we may attain everlasting happiness. Through the same Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).

Posted in GOD ALONE!, HUMILITY-Fr Richard Clarke, QUOTES on CONSOLATION, QUOTES on HAPPINESS, QUOTES on HUMILITY, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on PRIDE, QUOTES on SELF-DENIAL, QUOTES on VANITY, SELF-DISTRUST

Thought for the Day – 4 July – The Presentation of Humility

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Thought for the Day – 4 July – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)

HUMILITY
Meditations for a Month

The Presentation of Humility

When God gives us consolation and peace of soul, we are in danger of losing our sense of dependence and our humility, unless, we bear in mind that:
+ All this happiness is a gift of God which, at any moment, He might take from us and, if He does but turn His Face from us, our joy will be turned to sorrow and heaviness.
+ We live continually on the edge of a precipice and, without a humble reliance upon God, we shall be sure to plunge over it!
+ Prayer to God is necessary to keep us humble and to keep us from attributing to ourselves, His good gifts.

However great may be the graces given us and, however, high the degree of virtue we may attain, we are never safe, unless we remember that we have, in ourselves, an inextinguishable fount of sin and weakness, of concupiscence and rebellion against God, otherwise, our very graces, may prove our ruin. We must cry out to God each morning as Saint Philip did,
“Watch me, O Lord, this day –
for, abandoned to myself,
I shall surely betray Thee!”
‘Guard me against myself and the traitor within my heart which makes me so often unfaithful to Thee. Heal my soul, which abounds with that, which is displeasing to Thee.‘

Those who have great natural talents are in especial danger unless they cultivate constant dependence upon God. Their very ability, is a danger to them and makes them plume themselves, upon what they are able to effect. Nabuchodonosor did this and for a time God took from him his reason until he recognised his own nothingness. Beware of priding yourself on anything you do, lest God take away that talent which has been the cause of so great an evil!

Posted in "Follow Me", CHRIST, the WAY,TRUTH,LIFE, DOCTORS of the Church, GOD ALONE!, ONE Minute REFLECTION, QUOTES on DISCIPLESHIP, QUOTES on DIVINE PROVIDENCE, QUOTES on JOY, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on SELF-DENIAL, QUOTES on SUFFERING, QUOTES on THE VOICE OF GOD, QUOTES on TRUST and complete CONFIDENCE in GOD, SELF-DISTRUST, St Francis de Sales, St PAUL!, St PETER!, The WILL of GOD, The WORD

One Minute Reflection – 4 July – ‘ … When we do abandon all, Our Lord takes care of all …’

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One Minute Reflection – 4 July– “The Month of the Most Precious Blood” – Within the Octave of Sts Peter and Paul – Acts 5:12-16, Matthew 19:27-29 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“And everyone who has left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands,
for My Name’s sake, shall receive a hundredfold and shall possess life everlasting.” – Matthew 19:29

REFLECTION – “WE MUST POSSESS a continual and imperturbable equanimity, amid the great variety of human occurrences and although, all things change around us, remain immovable, with our eyes fixed on God alone.
And, although, all things, I will not merely say around us but even within us, should turn topsy-turvy; whether our souls be joyful or sorrowful, in peace or in trouble, in light or in darkness, in temptation or in repose, in happiness or in disgust, although the sun scorch, or the dew refresh – we should always keep our will fixed on the good pleasure of God, as its sole and supreme object.

It is true that we require great confidence to abandon ourselves, without any reserve, to Divine Providence but, when we do abandon all, Our Lord takes care of all and disposes of all.
But, if we reserve anything which we are unwilling to confide to Him, He leaves us, as if He would say: “You think yourselves sufficiently wise to manage that affair without Me – you can do so and see what will come of it!” – St Francis de Sales (1567-1622) Doctor Caritatis( Consoling Thoughts on God and Providence).

PRAYER – God, Who hast consecrated this day to the Martyrdom of Thy Apostles Peter and Paul, give Thy Church a precept to follow them in all things. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).

Posted in GOD ALONE!, MARIAN REFLECTIONS, PATIENCE - Fr Richard CLARKE, QUOTES on CONSOLATION, QUOTES on PATIENCE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on SACRED SCRIPTURE, QUOTES on SUFFERING

Thought for the Day – 29 June – The Patience of Mary

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Thought for the Day – 29 June – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)

PATIENCE
Meditations for a Month

The Patience of Mary

  1. As Jesus came to suffer, it was necessary that Mary should suffer with Him. This was her greatest privilege and she knew it to be such. She knew it even when her human love broke forth, in the words of expostulation: ‘Son, why hast Thou so dealt with us?‘
    She knew it when she stood broken-hearted beneath the Cross. She knew it when she received, in her arms, the Body of he Son, after He had been taken down from the Cross.
    She knew from first to last that the best proof of our Lord’s Love is to give us a share in His sufferings!
    This was Mary’s consolation; is it mine when I have to suffer?

+++ 2. We do not read much in Sacred Scripture respecting the patience of Mary,but enough to know that Jesus purposely tried her patience.
Why did He prompt holy Simeon to pierce her heart with the prediction of her coming sufferings? Why did He compel her to start in the dark night on the journey to Egypt, when He could, so easily, have defeated Herod’s projects? Why did He not let her know where He was, when He remained behind in Jerusalem? Why did He apparently rebuke her at the marriage of Cana? Why did He allow her heart to be torn by the sight of His Crucifixion?
It was all that she might have a more glorious reward and share His triumph, in a greater degree!

+++ 3 If we could have seen Mary upon earth, we would have been especially struck by her undisturbed peace. This was owing to her perfect patience and readiness to accept everything at God’s Hand.
‘Behold the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to thy word.’
If I desire peace, this must be the motto of my life.

Posted in CHRIST the LIGHT, CHRIST the WORD and WISDOM, DIVINE Mercy, Goodness, Patience, GOD ALONE!, JESUIT SJ, ONE Minute REFLECTION, QUOTES on CHARITY, QUOTES on DIVINE PROVIDENCE, QUOTES on HUMILITY, QUOTES on OBEDIENCE, QUOTES on PATIENCE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on STRENGTH, QUOTES on TRUST and complete CONFIDENCE in GOD, QUOTES on WORK/LABOUR, QUOTES on WORRY/ANXIETY, SELF-DISTRUST, The WORD

One Minute Reflection – 26 June – ‘ … Do not worry … but entrust to Divine Providence … ‘

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One Minute Reflection – 26 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” – Saint John and Saint Paul of Rome (Died c362) Martyrs – Ecclesiasticus 44:10-15, Luke 12:1-8 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings? And yet not one of them is forgotten before God. Yes, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Therefore, do not be afraid, you are of more value than many sparrows.” – Luke 12:6-7

REFLECTION – “It seems to me you ought to resolve to carry out peacefully what you can. Do not worry about all the rest but entrust to Divine Providence that which you are unable to accomplish on your own. What is pleasing to God ,is the reasonable care and attention we give, to accomplishing well, whatever business we must undertake through duty. What is not pleasing to God, is anxiety and disquiet of mind. The Lord wants our limitations and weaknesses, to find their support in His Strength; He wants us to hope that His Goodness will complete and perfect the imperfectness of our means.

Those who take on numerous responsibilities, even with an upright an d pure intention, must resolve to do simply what lies within their power … If it is necessary to set certain things aside, arm yourselves with patience and do not think that God expects of us what we are unable to do. He does not want a man to distress himself on account of his limitations … there is no need to tire ourselves out excessively. More, if we have laboured to do our best, we can abandon all the rest to Him ,Who has the power to accomplish whatever He will.

May the Divine Goodness always be pleased to communicate His Light of Wisdom to us, so that we may clearly see and firmly accomplish, His good pleasure, for ourselves and for others … so that we may accept from His Hand, whatever He sends us, taking due note of what is the most important – patience, humility, obedience and charity!” – St Ignatius Loyola (1491-1556) Priest, Founder of the Society of Jesus (Letter of 17 November 1555)

PRAYER – We beseech Thee, Almighty God that on this feast-day, we may have the double joy of celebrating blessed John and Paul, true brothers ,who obtained eternal glory through one Faith and one Martyrdom. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).

All praise, honour and glory to the divine HEART of JESUS. – Indulgence 50 Days, Once a day. Raccolta 168 Pope Leo XIII, 14 June 1901.

Posted in DOCTORS of the Church, FATHERS of the Church, I BELIEVE!, ONE Minute REFLECTION, QUOTES on FAITH, QUOTES on MYSTERIES of our FAITH, QUOTES on PEACE, The WORD

One Minute Reflection – 28 May – Into whatever house you enter, first say: Peace be to this house … Luke 10:5

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One Minute Reflection – 28 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary” – St Augustine of Canterbury (Died c 605) He is consideredthe Founder of the English Church and “The Apostle to the English.” He is the first Archbishop of Canterbury, Confessor, Missionary, Father of the Church. – 1 Thessalonians 2:2-9; Luke 10:1-9 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“Into whatever house you enter, first say: Peace be to this house.
And, if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon him but if not, it shall return to you.” – Luke 10:5-7

REFLECTION – “As you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house,‘” (Lk 10:5) so that the Lord Himself might enter and remain there, as with Mary. … This greeting is the Mystery of Faith which shines forth in the world. Through it, enmity is stifled, war is ended and people acknowledge one another. The effect of that greeting was hidden by a veil in spite of the fact that it prefigures the Mystery of the Resurrection … when the light rises and dawn chases night away. From the moment Christ sent out His disciples, people began to give and receive this greeting, a source of healing and blessing. …

This greeting with its hidden power … is amply sufficient for us all. That is why Our Lord sent it out, together with His disciples, as forerunner, so that it might bring about peace and, carried by the voice of the Apostles whom He sent, prepare the way before them. It was sown in every dwelling … it entered into all who heard it, so as to separate and set apart, the children it recognised as its own. It remained in them but it denounced those who were alien to it, for they did not welcome it.

This greeting of peace did not dry up; it began in the Apostles and then sprang up in their brethren, revealing the Lord’s inexhaustible treasures. … Present in those who offered greetings in this way and in those who welcomed the greeting, this announcement of peace was neither diminished nor divided. It announced that the Father is near and is in everyone; it revealed that the Son’s mission is bound up with all, even if its object is to be with His Father. It will not cease to proclaim that images are now brought to completion and Truth will cast all shadows away at last.” – St Ephrem (306-373) Father and Doctor of the Church (Diatessaron 8: 3-4).

PRAYER – O God, Who graciously enlightened the English peoples with the light of the True Faith by the preaching and miracles of the blessed Augustine, Thy Confessor and Bishop, grant, through his intercession that the hearts of those who have strayed, may return to the unity of the True Faith and that, we may be in harmony with Thine Will. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).

Posted in BLESSED TRINITY PRAYERS, franciscan OFM, GOD is LOVE, GOD the FATHER, Our MORNING Offering, PRAYERS of the SAINTS, QUOTES on PEACE

Our Morning Offering – 23 April – Prayer in Praise of God By St Francis of Assisi

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Our Morning Offering – 23 April – “The Month of the Resurrection and the Blessed Sacrament”

Prayer in Praise of God
By St Francis of Assisi (c1181-1226)

Thou art Holy, Lord, the only God
and Thine Deeds art wonderful.
Thou art Strong.
Thou art Great.
Thou art the Most High.
Thou art Almighty.
Thou, Holy Father art King of Heaven and earth.
Thou art Three and One, Lord God, all Good.
Thou art Good, all Good, Supreme Good,
Lord God, Living and True.
Thou art Love. Thou art Wisdom.
Thou art Humility. Thou art Endurance.
Thou art Rest. Thou art Peace.
Thou art Joy and Gladness.
Thou art Justice and Moderation.
Thou art all our Riches and Thou art Suffice for us.
Thou art Beauty. Thou art Gentleness.
Thou art our Protector.
Thou art our Guardian and Defender.
Thou art our Courage.
Thou art our Haven and our Hope.
Thou art our Faith, our great Consolation.
Thou art our Eternal Life,
Great and Wonderful Lord, God Almighty,
Merciful Saviour.
Amen

Posted in Our MORNING Offering, QUOTES of the SAINTS, QUOTES on GRACE, QUOTES on JOY, QUOTES on LOVE of GOD, QUOTES on OBEDIENCE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on PURITY, QUOTES on STRENGTH, QUOTES on WATCHING, SACRED HEART PRAYERS, The HEART

Our Morning Offering – 10 April – O Heart of Jesus!

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Our Morning Offering – 10 April – “The Month of the Resurrection and the Blessed Sacrament” – Ferial Day – Wednesday in the Second Week of Easter

O Heart of Jesus!
By St Gertrude the Great (1256-1302)

Sanctity of the Heart of Jesus,
consecrate my heart;
Providence of the Heart of Jesus,
watch over my heart;
Unchangeableness of the Heart of Jesus,
strengthen my heart;
Purity of the Heart of Jesus,
purify my heart;
Obedience of the Heart of Jesus,
subjugate my heart;
Amiability of the Heart of Jesus,
make Thyself known to my heart;
Divine attractions of the Heart of Jesus,
captivate my heart;
Riches of the Heart of Jesus,
do ye suffice for my heart;
Floods of grace and blessing
which flow from the Heart of Jesus,
inundate my heart.
O Heart of Jesus! be Thou my joy,
my peace, my repose in this world
and in the next.
O Heart of Jesus! adored in Heaven,
Invoked on earth, feared in hell,
Reign over all hearts,
Reign throughout all ages,
Reign forever in celestial glory.
Amen

Posted in ArchAngels and Angels, CARMELITES, CHRIST the LIGHT, CHRIST the WORD and WISDOM, DOCTORS of the Church, FATHERS of the Church, franciscan OFM, GOD ALONE!, QUOTES on ANGELS, QUOTES on COURAGE, QUOTES on FEAR, QUOTES on PATIENCE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on SELF-DENIAL, QUOTES on STRENGTH, QUOTES on SUFFERING, QUOTES on TRUST and complete CONFIDENCE in GOD, QUOTES on VIRTUE, QUOTES on WORRY/ANXIETY, SELF-DISTRUST, St Francis de Sales, The WILL of GOD, The WORD

Quote/s of the Day – 6 April – [He] hath called you out of darkness …

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Quote/s of the Day – 6 April – “The Month of the Resurrection and the Blessed Sacrament” – Easter Saturday – 1 Peter 2:1-10, John 20:1-9 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“[He] hath called you out of darkness
into His marvellous Light … ”

1 Peter 2:9

“Let not your hearts be troubled,
neither let them be afraid.”

John 14:27

“In the world you will have tribulation.
But take heart, I have conquered the world.”
John 16:33

“Who will be crowned without having fought?
Who will go to rest if he is not tired
(cf. 2 Tim 2:5-6)?
Who will gather the fruits of life
without having planted virtues in his soul?
Cultivate them, prepare the earth
with the greatest care,
take trouble over it, sweat over it,
children, God’s workers,
imitators of the Angels,
competitors with incorporeal beings,
lights for those who are in the world
(cf. Phil 2:15)!”

St Theodore the Studite (759-826)

“Lord, help me to live this day,
quietly, easily.
To lean upon Thy great strength,
trustfully, restfully.
To wait for the unfolding of Thy will,
patiently, serenely.
To meet others,
peacefully, joyously.
To face tomorrow,
confidently, courageously.”

St Frances of Assisi (c1181-1226)

“Let nothing perturb you,
nothing frighten you.
All things pass.
God does not change.
Patience achieves everything.”

St Teresa of Jesus of Avila (1515-1582)
Doctor of Prayer

“Let us think only
of spending the present
day well.
Then, when tomorrow
shall have come,
it will be called
TODAY
and then, we will think
about it.”

St Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
Doctor of the Church

Posted in HOLY WEEK, MEDITATIONS - ANTONIO CARD BACCI, QUOTES on GRACE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on SELF-DENIAL, QUOTES on SUFFERING, The LAMB of GOD, The PASSION, The WILL of GOD

Thought for the Day – 26 March – Jesus in Gethsemane

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Thought for the Day – 26 March – Meditations with Antonio Cardinal Bacci (1881-1971)

Jesus in Gethsemane

“In His sadness and loneliness, Jesus is comforted by an Angel.
It is true that, being God, He was in no need of being consoled by Angels.
Moreover, He had willingly allowed Himself to be offered as a Victim of Expiation for our sins.
“He was offered because it was His own will” (Is 53:7).
But, He wished to be an example to us in this matter too.

If we trustingly abandon ourselves to God’s will in moments of temptation and of sorrow, we shall receive comfort from our Angel too.
How many times have we experienced this mysterious consolation in our souls?
When we have bowed our heads in suffering and have offered ourselves as pure victims to God, we have felt an inner light and peace which only Divine grace can give.”

Antonio Cardinal Bacci

PART ONE:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/04/10/thought-for-the-day-10-april-jesus-in-gethsemane/
PART TWO:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/04/11/thought-for-the-day-11-april-jesus-in-gethsemane/

Posted in DOCTORS of the Church, FATHERS of the Church, GOD ALONE!, HOLY WEEK, LENT 2024, QUOTES for CHRIST, QUOTES on DISCIPLESHIP, QUOTES on HUMILITY, QUOTES on MISSION, QUOTES on OBEDIENCE, QUOTES on PEACE, St Francis de Sales, The PASSION, The WORD

Quote/s of the Day – 24 March – Palm Sunday –

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Quote/s of the Day – 24 March – Palm Sunday – Philippians 2:5-11, Matthew 26:36-75; 27:1-60 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“Behold the hour is at hand
and the Son of man shall be betrayed
into the hands of sinners.”

Matthew 26:45

“Yesterday, Christ raised Lazarus from the dead;
today, He is going to His own death.
Yesterday, He tore off the strips of cloth which bound Lazarus;
today, He is stretching out His Hand,
to those who want to bind Him.
Yesterday, He tore that man away from darkness;
today, for humankind,
He is going down into darkness
and the shadow of death.
And the Church is celebrating.
She is beginning the feast of Feasts,
for she is receiving her King as a Spouse,
for her King is in her midst.”

St Ephrem (306-373) (Attri)
Father ad Doctor of the Church

“Oh! how blessed are they
whom our Divine Master chooses to carry Him,
who are covered with the Apostles’ cloaks,
that is, clothed with apostolic virtues,
which render them worthy of bearing our dear Saviour
and of being led by Him.
Blessed are they who conduct themselves
here in lowliness and humility.
They will be exalted in Heaven
[Matt. 18:4; 23:12; Lk. 14:11; 18:14].
Their patience will win for them perpetual peace and tranquility;
for their obedience they shall receive a crown of glory
[Tab. 3:21; James 1:12];
finally, they shall be covered with the hundredfold of blessings
in this life and shall bless the Father, Son and Holy Ghost,
eternally in the next.
May God give us this grace. Amen.”

St Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
Doctor Caritatis

(Spiritual Conferences, XVII)

Posted in "Follow Me", CHRIST, the WAY,TRUTH,LIFE, DOCTORS of the Church, FATHERS of the Church, GOD is LOVE, I BELIEVE!, JULY - The MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD, OUR Cross, QUOTES for CHRIST, QUOTES on FAITH, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on SUFFERING, QUOTES on the CROSS of CHRIST, QUOTES on the DEVIL/EVIL, The DIVINE INFANT, The HOLY CROSS, The MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD, The SIGN of the CROSS

Quote/s of the Day – 23 March – ‘The Sign of the Cross of our Lord…’

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Quote/s of the Day – 23 March – Saturday in Passion Week

“The illusions of this world soon vanish,
especially if a man arms himself
with the Sign of the Cross.
The devils tremble
at the Sign of the Cross of our Lord,
by which He triumphed over and disarmed them.”

St Anthony Abbot (251-356)

“The day will come when this Child
will no longer be offered in the Temple,
nor in Simeon’s arms
but outside the City
in the arms of the Cross.
The day will come when He
will not be redeemed
by the blood of a sacrifice
but redeem others ,
with His own Blood. …”
That will be the evening sacrifice;
this is the morning sacrifice;
this one is the happiest
but that one is the most complete;
for this one was offered
at the time of birth
and that one will be offered
in the fullness of time,..”

St Bernard (1091-1153)
Mellifluous Doctor of the Church

“Look then on Jesus,
the Author and Preserver of faith —
in complete sinlessness, He suffered
and, at the hands of those who were His own
and was numbered among the wicked.
As you drink the cup of the Lord Jesus
(how glorious it is!), give thanks to the Lord,
the Giver of all blessings.
May the God of love and peace
set your hearts at rest
and speed you on your journey;
may He meanwhile, shelter you
from disturbance by others
in the hidden recesses of His Love,
until He brings you, at last,
into that place of complete plenitude,
where you will repose forever in the vision of peace,
in the security of trust
and in the restful enjoyment of His riches. ”

St Raymond of Peñafort (1175-1275)

Posted in "Follow Me", CHRIST, the WAY,TRUTH,LIFE, GOD ALONE!, PRAYERS for VARIOUS NEEDS, PRAYERS of the SAINTS, QUOTES on PEACE

Quote/s of the Day – 21 March – St Benedict

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Quote/s of the Day – 21 March – St Benedict OSB (c480-547) Abbot

“Listen and attend
with the ear of your heart.”

“Be careful to be gentle,
lest in removing the rust,
you break the whole instrument.”

“Idleness is an enemy of the soul.”

O God, Be With Us
By St Benedict (c480-547)

O God,
from Whom to be turned,
is to fall,
to Whom to be turned,
is to rise,
and in Whom to stand,
is to abide forever.
Grant us in all our duties, Thy help,
in all our perplexities, Thy guidance,
in all our dangers, Thy protection,
and in all our sorrows, Thy peace,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

MORE:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/21/quote-s-of-the-day-21-march-st-benedict-2/

St Benedict (c480-547)

Posted in GOD ALONE!, PRAYERS of the SAINTS, QUOTES on GRACE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on SELF-DENIAL, QUOTES on TEMPTATION, QUOTES on THANKSGIVING, SAINT of the DAY

Quote/s of the Day – 8 March – St John of God

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Quote/s of the Day – 8 March – St John of God OH (1495-1550) Confessor, Founder of the Brothers Hospitallers of Saint John of God

Lord be Blessed!
(A Prayer of Thanksgiving and Self-oblation)
By St John of God (1495-1550)

Lord be blessed!
for in Thy great kindness to me,
who art such a great sinner,
having performed so many wicked things,
yet Thou seest fit to set me free,
from such a tremendous temptation
and deception into which I fell,
through my own sinfulness.
Thou hast brought me into a safe harbour,
where I shall endeavour to serve Thee
with all my strength.
My Lord, I beg Thee, with all my might,
give me the strength of Thine grace
and always let me see Thine clemency.
I wish to be Thy slave,
so kindly show me what I should do.
Give peace and quiet to my soul
which greatly desires this.
O most worthy Lord,
may this creature of Thine,
serve and praise Thee.
May I give my whole heart
and mind, to Thee.
Amen

MORE:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/08/quote-s-of-the-day-8-march-st-john-of-god-oh-1495-1550/

St John of God (1495-1550)

Posted in "Follow Me", CHRIST the LIGHT, CHRIST the SUN of JUSTICE, CHRIST the WORD and WISDOM, CHRIST, the WAY,TRUTH,LIFE, FATHERS of the Church, JANUARY month of THE MOST HOLY NAME of JESUS, ONE Minute REFLECTION, QUOTES on FORGIVENESS, QUOTES on PEACE, The HOLY NAME, The WORD

One Minute Reflection – 5 March – Forgive and be at peace

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One Minute Reflection – 5 March – Tuesday of the Third Week of Lent – 4 Kings 4:1-7, Matthew 18:15-22 – “The Month of St Joseph”

“Then Peter came up to him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times but seventy times seven.” – Matthew 18:21-22

REFLECTION – “He is our peace, for He has made both one. Since we think of Christ as our peace, we may call ourselves true Christians, only if our lives express Christ by our own peace. As the Apostle says: He has put enmity to death. We must never allow it to be rekindled in us in any way but, must declare, that it is absolutely dead. Gloriously has God slain enmity, in order to save us, may we never risk the life of our souls by being resentful or by bearing grudges. …

No, since we possess Christ Who is Peace, we must put an end to this enmity and live as we believe He lived. He broke down the separating wall, uniting what was divided, bringing about peace by reconciling in His single person, those who disagreed. In the same way, we must be reconciled not only with those who attack us from outside but also with those who stir up dissension within; flesh then will no longer be opposed to the spirit, nor the spirit to the flesh. Once we subject the wisdom of the flesh to God’s law, we shall be re-created as one single man, at peace. Then, having become one instead of two, we shall have peace within ourselves.

Now peace is defined as harmony among those who are divided. When, therefore, we end that civil war within our nature and cultivate peace within ourselves, we become peace. By this peace we demonstrate that the Name of Christ, which we bear, is authentic and appropriate.

When we consider that Christ is the True Light, having nothing in common with deceit, we learn that our own life also must shine with the rays of that True Light. Now these rays of the Sun of Justice are the virtues which pour out to enlighten us so that we may put away the works of darkness and walk honourably as in broad daylight. When we reject the deeds of darkness and do everything in the light of day, we become light and, as light should, we give light to others by our actions. If we truly think of Christ as our source of holiness, we shall refrain from anything wicked or impure in thought or act and thus, show ourselves to be worthy bearers of His Name. For the quality of holiness is shown, not by what we say but by what we do in life.” – St Gregory of Nyssa (c 335–C 395) – Bishop and Father of the Church (Excerpt from his treatise, On Christian Perfection).

PRAYER – O God, Thou Who sees how we are deprived of all strength, guard us inwardly and outwardly that in body, we may be protected against all misfortunes and in mind, cleansed of evil thoughts and by the intercession of blessed and gloriosus ever Virgin Mary, Mother of God, be assisted on this earthly pilgrimage. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).

Posted in 7 GIFTS of the HOLY GHOST: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Strength, Knowledge, Piety, Fear, CATECHESIS, GOD ALONE!, MEDITATIONS - ANTONIO CARD BACCI, QUOTES on ANGER, QUOTES on FEAR, QUOTES on GOSSIP, QUOTES on HEAVEN, QUOTES on HOPE, QUOTES on HUMILITY, QUOTES on JOY, QUOTES on KINDNESS, QUOTES on PATIENCE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on PRIDE, QUOTES on STRENGTH, QUOTES on SUFFERING, QUOTES on TEMPTATION, QUOTES on TRUST and complete CONFIDENCE in GOD, St Francis de Sales, The HOLY GHOST, The WILL of GOD, The WORD

Quote/s of the Day – 4 March – Wisdom for Lent and for Life

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Quote/s of the Day – 4 March – Wisdom for Lent and for Life

“Abide in Me and I in you.
As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself,
unless it abide in the vine,
so neither can you,
unless you abide in Me.”

John 15:4

“Strive to preserve your heart in peace;
let no event of this world, disturb it.”

St John of the Cross (1542-1591)
Doctor of the Church

“If, when stung by slander
or ill-nature,
we wax proud
and swell with anger,
it is a proof that our gentleness
and humility
are unreal
and mere artificial show!”

“Do not look forward to the changes and chances
of this life in fear – rather look to them
with full hope that, as they arise,
God, Whose you are, will deliver you out of them.
He is your keeper. He has kept you hitherto.
Do you but hold fast to His dear Hand
and He will lead you safely through all things
and, when you cannot stand, He will bear you in His arms.
Do not look forward to what may happen tomorrow.
Our Father will either shield you from suffering,
or He will give you strength to bear it.”

“The truly patient man
neither complains of his hard lot,
nor desires to be pitied by others.
He speaks of his sufferings
in a natural, true and sincere way,
without murmuring, complaining,
or exaggerating them.”

St Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
Doctor Caritatis

“If we live good lives, hoping for a Heavenly reward
and guided by the action of the Holy Spirit,
dwelling within us, we shall possess this spiritual joy.
Once we possess it, it will be erased,
neither by temptation, nor by suffering,
nor by persecution, as long, as our faith,
remains firm and steadfast.
The sincere Christian accepts pleasure and pain
with equal readiness because he places
everything in God’s hands.
… We must try, at least, to achieve
that spirit of complete resignation to God’s will
which is always rewarded by peace of soul!”

Antonio Cardinal Bacci (1881-1971)

Posted in GOD ALONE!, QUOTES on DIVINE PROVIDENCE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on SELF-DENIAL, QUOTES on SUFFERING, QUOTES on THANKSGIVING, QUOTES on The SOUL, QUOTES on WILL (Reasonable or Superior), QUOTES on Will (Sensual or Inferior), QUOTES on WORRY/ANXIETY, SELF-DISTRUST, SOLDIERS/ARMOUR of CHRIST, THE SPIRITUAL COMBAT - Fr Lorenzo Scupoli, The WILL of GOD

Thought for the Day – 1 March– The Soldier of Christ Must Avoid All which May Disturb His Peace of Mind (Part Three)

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Thought for the Day – 1 March– The Spiritual Combat (1589) – Dom Lorenzo Scupoli OSM (c1530-1610)

“None shall be crowned who has not fought well.” 2 Tim 2: 5

XXV: … The Soldier of Christ Must Avoid All
which May Disturb His Peace of Mind
(Part Three)

“And, as anxiety at the approach of adverse events, springs up even more frequently in our hearts, you have two things to do in order to ward off this assault.

+++ The FIRST is, carefully to search out and discover to what these events are adverse, whether to the soul, or to self-love and self-will.
For, if they be adverse to your own will and to self-love, your chief and greatest enemy, they are not to be called adverse but, to be esteemed as special favours and aids from the Most High God, to be received with a joyful heart and with thanksgiving!
And, although they should be adverse to the soul, you ought not. on this account, to lose your peace of mind, as I will show you in the following chapter.

+++ The SECOND is, to lift up the heart to God, accepting all things blindly from the Hand of His Divine Providence, ever full of manifold blessings, beyond your power to comprehend and, seeking to know nothing further!”

Dom Lorenzo Scupoli

PART ONE:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/28/thought-for-the-day-28-february-the-soldier-of-christ-must-avoid-all-which-may-disturb-his-peace-of-mind-part-one/
PART TWO:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/29/thought-for-the-day-29-february-the-soldier-of-christ-must-avoid-all-which-may-disturb-his-peace-of-mind-part-two/

Posted in "Follow Me", OPEN HOUSE...Conversations with..., QUOTES on GOOD WORKS, QUOTES on MORTIFICATION, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on the DEVIL/EVIL, SELF-DISTRUST, The HEART

Thought for the Day – 29 February – The Soldier of Christ Must Avoid All which May Disturb His Peace of Mind (Part Two)

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Thought for the Day – 29 February – The Spiritual Combat (1589) – Dom Lorenzo Scupoli OSM (c1530-1610)

“None shall be crowned who has not fought well.” 2 Tim 2: 5

XXV: … The Soldier of Christ Must Avoid All
which May Disturb His Peace of Mind
(Part Two)

“Besides, when the heart is unquiet, it is always exposed to manifold assaults of the enemy and, moreover, in such a state, we are incapable of understanding and discovering the correct path and the sure way of holiness.

Our enemy, who, above all things, hates this peace because, the Spirit of God, dwells therein and inspires marvellous works, the devil often seeks, in a friendly disguise, to rob us of such God-given peace, by instilling into our hearts, sundry desires which have a semblance of good.
But ,their deceitful nature maybe detected by this test, among others, that is – they rob us of our peace of mind!

Therefore, to avert so great an evil, when the sentinel gives notice of the approach of some new desire, on no account give it entrance into your heart, until, with a free and unbiased will, you have first presented it to God and, confessing your ignorance and blindness, have earnestly prayed to Him for light to discern whether it comes from Him or from the enemy.

Have recourse also, if possible, to the judgement of your spiritual father.
And, even if the desire should be from God, do not begin to carry it into execution until you have mortified your own eagerness; for a work preceded by such mortication, will be far more acceptable to Him, than if performed with all the impetuosity of nature.
Nay, sometimes it maybe that the mortication will please Him better than the work itself.

Thus, casting from you all evil desires,and not venturing to carry even good desires into effect, until you have first repressed your natural impulses, you shall keep the fortress of your heart in security and peace.

And, in order to preserve it in perfect peace, you must also guard and defend it from certain inward self-reproaches and remorseful feelings which are sometimes from the devil, although, as they accuse you of some failing, they seem to come from God.
By their fruits shall you know whence they proceed!
If they humble you, if they make you diligent in well-doing, if they do not take from you, your trust in God, then receive them with all thankfulness as coming from Him.
But, if they discourage you, if they make you fearful, distrustful, slack and feeble in good deeds, then, be assured, they come from the enemy!
Give no ear to them but continue your exercise.”

Dom Lorenzo Scupoli

PART ONE:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/28/thought-for-the-day-28-february-the-soldier-of-christ-must-avoid-all-which-may-disturb-his-peace-of-mind-part-one/

Posted in QUOTES on GRACE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on SUFFERING, SOLDIERS/ARMOUR of CHRIST, THE SPIRITUAL COMBAT - Fr Lorenzo Scupoli

Thought for the Day – 28 February – The Soldier of Christ Must Avoid All which May Disturb His Peace of Mind (Part One)

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Thought for the Day – 28 February – The Spiritual Combat (1589) – Dom Lorenzo Scupoli OSM (c1530-1610)

“None shall be crowned who has not fought well.” 2 Tim 2: 5

XXV: … The Soldier of Christ Must Avoid All
which May Disturb His Peace of Mind
(Part One)

Antonio de Pereda y Salgado – The Liberation of St Peter by an Angel

“When we have lost our peace of mind, we should do our utmost to recover it; neither, is there any accident of life which should reasonably have power to deprive us of that peace, or even to trouble it.
Over our own sins, we have indeed cause to mourn deeply but, our sorrow, as I have shown more than once, should be calm and in like manner, without any disquiet but with a holy feeling of charity, should we compassionate other sinners and weep, at least inwardly, over their offenses.

As to other sad and trying events, such as sickness, wounds, or loss of dearest friends, pestilence, fire, war, or suchlike evils – although these being painful to nature, are, for the most part, shunned by the men of this world, yet may we, by Divine grace, not only desire but, even love them, as just chastisements upon the wicked and occasions of virtue to the just.
For, therefore, does our Lord God take pleasure in sending them and thus borne forward by His will, we shall pass, with a calm and quiet spirit, through all the bitterness and contradictions of this life.
And be assured that all disquietude, on our part, is displeasing in His sight for, of whatever kind it be, it is never free from imperfection and always springs from some evil root of self-love.

Keep, therefore, a sentinel always on the watch, who, as soon as he shall discern the approach of anything likely to disquiet or disturb you, may give you a signal, to take up your weapons of defence!

And consider that, all these evils,and many others of a like kind, although outwardly they appear to be such, are not indeed real evils, nor can they rob us of any real good but are all ordered, or permitted by God, for the righteous ends of which we have spoken, or for others, most wise and holy, although beyond our power to discern and understand.

So, may the most untoward accident work for us much good, if we do but keep our souls in peace and tranquillity, otherwise, all our exercises will produce little, or no fruit!”

Dom Lorenzo Scupoli

Posted in "Follow Me", CATECHESIS, CHRIST the WORD and WISDOM, CHRIST, the WAY,TRUTH,LIFE, FATHERS of the Church, GOD ALONE!, JANUARY month of THE MOST HOLY NAME of JESUS, LENT 2024, LENTEN THOUGHTS, QUOTES for CHRIST, QUOTES on LOVE of GOD, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on PURITY, QUOTES on SANCTITY, QUOTES on SELF-DENIAL, The HEART, The HOLY NAME

Our Lenten Journey with the Angels and the Saints – 22 February – ‘ … What then must we do, we who have been found worthy of the Name of Christ? … ‘

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Our Lenten Journey with the Angels and the Saints – 22 February – The Feast of the Chair of St Peter at Antioch –1 Peter 1:1-7; Matthew 16:13-19 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“Let the mercies of the Lord, give glory to Him
and his wonderful works to the children of men!”
Psalm 106:31

“But Whom do you say that I Am?
Simon Peter answered and said:
Thou art Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Matthew 16:15-16

On Christian Perfection
In Thought, Word and Deed

St Gregory of Nyssa (c335–c395)
Bishop and Father of the Church

(Brother of St Basil the Great)

“The life of the Christian has three distinguishing aspects – deeds, words and thought. Thought comes first, then words, since our words express openly the interior conclusions of the mind. Finally, after thoughts and words, comes action, for our deeds carry out what the mind has conceived. So when one of these results in our acting or speaking or thinking, we must make sure that all our thoughts, words and deeds are controlled by the Divine Ideal, the Revelation of Christ. For then, our thoughts, words and deeds will not fall short of the nobility of their implications.

What then must we do, we who have been found worthy of the Name of Christ? Each of us must examine his thoughts, words and deeds, to see whether they are directed toward Christ or are turned away from Him. This examination is carried out in various ways. Our deeds or our thoughts or our words are not in harmony with Christ if they issue from passion. They then bear the mark of the enemy who smears the pearl of the heart with the slime of passion, dimming and even destroying the luster of the precious stone.

On the other hand, if they are free from and untainted by every passionate inclination, they are directed toward Christ, the Author and Source of peace. He is like a pure, untainted stream. If you draw the thoughts in your mind and the inclinations of your heart from Him, you will show a likeness to Christ, your Source and Origin, as the gleaming water in a jar resembles the flowing water from which it was obtained.

For the purity of Christ and the purity which is manifest in our hearts are identical. Christ’s purity, however, is the Fountainhead; ours has its Source in Him and flows out of Him. Our life is stamped with the beauty of His thought. The inner and the outer man, are harmonised in a kind of music. The mind of Christ is the controlling influence which inspires us to moderation and goodness in our behaviour. As I see it, Christian perfection consists in this – sharing the title which expresses the meaning of Christ’s Name, we bring out this meaning in our minds, our prayers and our way of life.” – (Extract from his Treatise On Christian Perfection).

Posted in DOMINICAN OP, GOD is LOVE, QUOTES on ETERNAL LIFE, QUOTES on HEAVEN, QUOTES on LOVE of GOD, QUOTES on MERIT, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on PURITY, QUOTES on SELF-DENIAL, QUOTES on SUFFERING, QUOTES on the CROSS of CHRIST, QUOTES on THE WORLD, QUOTES on WEALTH/RICHES, The HEART, The HOLY CROSS, The PASSION

Quote/s of the Day – 23 January – St Raymond of Peñafort (1175-1275)

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Quote/s of the Day – 23 January – St Raymond of Peñafort OP (1175-1275) Confessor, “Father of Canon Law”

“May you never be numbered
among those whose house
is peaceful, quiet
and free from care,
those on whom
the Lord’s chastisement
does not descend,
those who live out their days
in prosperity and in the
twinkling of an eye,
will go down to hell!”

“Your purity of life, your devotion,
deserve and call for a reward
because you are acceptable
and pleasing to God.
Your purity of life must be made purer still,
by frequent buffetings,
until you attain perfect sincerity of heart.
If, from time to time, you feel the sword
falling upon you with double or treble force,
this also should be seen as sheer joy
and the mark of love!”

“Look then on Jesus,
the Author and Preserver of faith —
in complete sinlessness, He suffered
and, at the hands of those who were His own
and was numbered among the wicked.
As you drink the cup of the Lord Jesus
(how glorious it is!), give thanks to the Lord,
the Giver of all blessings.
May the God of love and peace
set your hearts at rest
and speed you on your journey;
may He meanwhile, shelter you
from disturbance by others
in the hidden recesses of His Love,
until He brings you, at last,
into that place of complete plenitude,
where you will repose forever in the vision of peace,
in the security of trust
and in the restful enjoyment of His riches. ”

St Raymond of Peñafort (1175-1275)

Posted in BAPTISM, CARMELITES, DOCTORS of the Church, DOMINICAN OP, franciscan OFM, GOD ALONE!, HOLY WEEK, JANUARY month of THE MOST HOLY NAME of JESUS, JULY - The MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD, PRAYERS of the SAINTS, PRECIOUS BLOOD PRAYERS, QUOTES on CHARITY, QUOTES on FAITH, QUOTES on GOOD WORKS, QUOTES on HAPPINESS, QUOTES on HOPE, QUOTES on LOVE, QUOTES on LOVE of GOD, QUOTES on PATIENCE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on PERSECUTION, QUOTES on PERSEVERANCE, QUOTES on SELF-DENIAL, QUOTES on SUFFERING, QUOTES on TRUST and complete CONFIDENCE in GOD, The HOLY NAME, The MOST HOLY REDEEMER, Our SAVIOUR, The MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD, The PASSION, The WILL of GOD, The WORD, THEOLOGICAL

Quote/s of the Day – 22 January – ‘… Always persevere …’

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Quote/s of the Day – 22 January – “The Month of the Most Holy Name of Jesus and of the Holy Family” – St Vincent of Saragossa (Died 304) Protomartyr of Spain and St Anastasius the Persian (Died 628) Martyr – Wisdom 3:1-8; Luke 21:9-19 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“And you shall be hated by all men,
for My Name’s sake.”

Luke 21:17

“The fruits of the earth
are not brought to perfection immediately
but by time, rain and care.
Similarly, the fruits of men ripen
through ascetic practice,
study, time, perseverance,
self-control and patience.”

St Anthony Abbot (251-356)

“Rejoice and be happy!
Persevere to the end
and prefer to die
rather than abandon the post,
to which God has called you!”

St Catherine of Siena (1347-1380)
Doctor of the Church

“Love consists,
not in feeling great things
but, in having great detachment
and in suffering for the Beloved.”

St John of the Cross (1542-1591)
Doctor Mysticus

“Now, you must always persevere
in firmly placing all your trust in our Lord,
in the troublesome business you have in hand.
It will give you a fine opportunity
of laying a good foundation of submission
to God’s will and peace of soul.”

St Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
Doctor Caritatis

Excerpt from the Prayer
to the Five Wounds of Jesus
By St Clare of Assisi (1194-1253)

I pray Thee, O most gentle Jesus,
that having redeemed me
by Baptism from original sin,
so now, by Thy Precious Blood,
which is offered and received,
throughout the world,
deliver me from all evils,
past, present and to come.
And by Thy most bitter Death,
give me a lively faith,
a firm hope
and perfect charity,
so that I may love Thee
with all my heart and all my soul
and all my strength.
Make me firm and steadfast in good works
and grant me perseverance in Thy service,
so that I may be able to please Thee always.
Amen.

Posted in CARMELITES, CHRIST the WORD and WISDOM, DOCTORS of the Church, GOD ALONE!, GOOD RESOLUTIONS, ONE Minute REFLECTION, PRACTISING CATHOLIC, QUOTES on COURAGE, QUOTES on FAITH, QUOTES on HUMILITY, QUOTES on LOVE of GOD, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on PERSECUTION, QUOTES on SUFFERING, QUOTES on THE WORLD, QUOTES on WATCHING, QUOTES on WILL (Reasonable or Superior), The FAITHFUL on PILGRIMAGE, The WORD

One Minute Reflection – 22 January – O strong love of God!

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One Minute Reflection – 22 January – “The Month of the Most Holy Name of Jesus and of the Holy Family” – St Vincent of Saragossa (Died 304) Protomartyr of Spain and St Anastasius the Persian (Died 628) Martyr – Wisdom 3:1-8; Luke 21:9-19 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“Resolve, therefore, in your hearts, not to meditate beforehand, how you are to make your defence. For I Myself, will give you utterance and wisdom …” – Luke 21:14-15

REFLECTION – “O strong love of God! I really think, nothing seems impossible, to one who loves. O happy soul which has obtained this peace, from its God! For it has become mistress over all the trials and perils of the world. If only it can serve its good Spouse and Lord, it fears none of them – and, with good reason … Think of something which occurs to me now and which, is applicable to those who are naturally pusillanimous and have little courage … Although, in actual fact, their soul has been raised up to this state, the weakness of their nature makes them afraid. We must be on the watch, or this natural weakness, will deprive us of a great crown. When you find yourselves as pusillanimous as this, my daughters, have recourse to faith and humility and do not fail to go forward with faith, for nothing is impossible to God (Lk 1:37). He has thus been able to give many holy Saints, the courage to endure all the cruel tortures which they had resolved to suffer for His sake!

It is of this resolution and this free-will that the soul wishes to make Him Master, though He has no need of our efforts. Indeed, His Majesty is pleased that His works should shine forth in those who are weak, since in these, there is more scope for His power and, for the fulfilment of His desire, to grant us favours…

Pay no heed to the arguments adduced by your mind and your own weakness – this weakness will only grow, if you begin to imagine, what will and what will not happen …This is no time to think about your sins, leave them alone, humility is out of place now, it comes at the wrong time… Be assured that the Lord never forsakes those who love Him and risk everything for His sake!” – St Teresa of Jesus of Avila (1515-1582) Carmelite, Doctor of the Church (Conceptions of the Love of God Ch 3:4-6).

PRAYER – Give heed to our humble prayers, O Lord, that we who know we are guilty of our own sin, may be saved by the intercession of Thy blessed Martyrs Vincent and Anastasius.Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).

Posted in AUGUSTINIANS OSA, CHRIST the WORD and WISDOM, DOCTORS of the Church, FATHERS of the Church, QUOTES on GRACE, QUOTES on HUMILITY, QUOTES on OBEDIENCE, QUOTES on PEACE, QUOTES on PRIDE, QUOTES on SELF-DENIAL, St Francis de Sales, THE EPIPHANY of the LORD, The HEART, The WORD

Quote/s of the Day – 21 January – It is in the heart …

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Quote/s of the Day – 21 January – St Agnes (c 291- c 304) Virgin and Martyr – Romans 12:16-21; Matthew 8:1-13 – – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“The centurion said in reply,
“Lord, I am not worthy
to have you enter under my roof;
only say the word
and my servant will be healed.”

Matthew 8:8

“By viewing himself as unworthy,
he showed himself worthy,
for Christ to come,
not merely into his house
but also into his heart.”

“For the Master of humility,
both by word and example,
sat down also, in the house
of a certain proud Pharisee, Simon
and although He sat down in his house,
there was no place in his heart.
For in his heart.
the Son of Man could not lay His head.”

St Augustine (354-430)
Father and Doctor of Grace

“The obedience of the Star
calls us to imitate its humble service:
to be servants, as best we can,
of the grace which invites all men
to find Christ.”

St Pope Leo the Great (400-461)
Father and Doctor of the Church

“To receive the grace of God
into our hearts,
we ought to empty them
of our own glory.”

St Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
Doctor of Charity

“Keep your heart in peace
and let nothing trouble you,
not even your faults.
You must humble yourself
and amend them peacefully,
without being discouraged or cast down,
for God’s dwelling, is in peace.”

St Margaret Mary Alacoque (1647-1690)