May 30th
Chapter Twenty-Seven of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Frequent Invocation of Mary
Like to the fragrant myrrh, I give and I have given the sweetness of perfumes. Reflect, O my son, reflect carefully on the example and the actions of Mary. She is that myrrh, fragrant and choice which produced a perfume and a fruit, Jesus. She is the one who carries to earth and to men the abundance of sweet consolations.
Guard in the depth of your heart the name of Mary and you will be consoled. To be loved by Mary is to possess a treasure. The love of Mary extinguishes the fire of the passions and brings to the soul the freshness of the virtues. The love of Mary teaches you to scorn the world and to serve God in humility. The love of Mary ever leads you away from evil and ever guides you to practice good.
Therefore love Mary with a special love, and you will receive from her special graces. Invoke Mary, and you will be victorious. Honor Mary, and you will have happiness. Two particular graces are the fruit of devotion to the Virgin Mary. The first is to know how to praise God in prosperity; the second is to be able to be patient in adversity.
It is thus that Mary always glorified the Lord for the generous benefits she received from His hand while on earth. It is thus that she showed herself in trials, always sweet and always ready to choose abasement rather than exaltation.
O Virgin most holy, O glorious Mary, O Mother, you are the gate of paradise, the source of life, the temple of the Lord, the beloved sanctuary of the Holy Ghost. Whatever I can see of grace and beauty in human creatures; whatever I find of the sublime and great in the saints united to God in heaven; all this can I apply without error to your excellence and to your dignity. It is very just and suitable that I apply myself, and with me all creatures, to praise unceasingly her whom I have chosen for advocate and mother, not only here below but in heaven beyond life, so as to merit through her eternal glory. The glory of Jesus, Her Son, thrice holy!
Excerpts of books by saints and holy men and women of the Church.
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Thursday, May 30, 2013
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
May 29th
Chapter Twenty-Six of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Maternal Intercession of Mary
It is a salutary practice for all to evoke the memory of the holy and glorious Virgin Mary and to confide themselves to her in all dangers as an unhappy child confides himself to his mother. The name of Mary frequently invoked brings to the soul assurance and comfort. In her turn, Mary is always ready to say to her Son the word of grace in favor of anyone who suffers and who bears the burden of sorrow.
Indeed, if Mary did not intercede in heaven for the world, how would the world be able to subsist in the midst of the sins, and in the mire of the vice in which it would dwell? But, first of all, what ought you to ask of Mary? In the fist place, pardon for the sins committed; next, the grace of practicing humility, because it is humility alone which is pleasing to God. You ought also to seek out poverty and not to glorify yourself for gifts received, if you do not wish to lose your poverty itself.
Seek all that you desire to obtain from God, through Mary, for her power extends over the earth and over purgatory. Her glory is great and her grace is powerful, surpassing that of the archangels, the angels, and the saints, rising to God who is the cause of her grandeur and glory. But this power, these glories and these favors, she has then that she may distribute them to us who live here below and who ask her for them.
To ask pardon for your sins and to remain humble is what please God and Mary most. Indeed it is because of her humility that Mary glorified herself before God, whereas she always kept silence about the other virtues and the other graces. Humility everywhere; humility in everything.
Come, O my soul, come to embrace the one whom you love! Cover with kisses Mary, your Mother and the Mother of God. Kiss also her Son Jesus, the most beautiful of children among all the children of men. You, O Mary, are accustomed to hearing the prayer of the poor and of orphans, and you never send away unconsoled those who persevere in coming to pray to you.
You, O Mary, are the virgin Mother of a God, you are the mysterious and loving tree, engendered by the eternal line of kings, the tree which has produced the mysterious flower announced for the salvation of the whole world. Jesus, our Savior and the savior of all, to whom be honor and glory for eternity.
Chapter Twenty-Six of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Maternal Intercession of Mary
It is a salutary practice for all to evoke the memory of the holy and glorious Virgin Mary and to confide themselves to her in all dangers as an unhappy child confides himself to his mother. The name of Mary frequently invoked brings to the soul assurance and comfort. In her turn, Mary is always ready to say to her Son the word of grace in favor of anyone who suffers and who bears the burden of sorrow.
Indeed, if Mary did not intercede in heaven for the world, how would the world be able to subsist in the midst of the sins, and in the mire of the vice in which it would dwell? But, first of all, what ought you to ask of Mary? In the fist place, pardon for the sins committed; next, the grace of practicing humility, because it is humility alone which is pleasing to God. You ought also to seek out poverty and not to glorify yourself for gifts received, if you do not wish to lose your poverty itself.
Seek all that you desire to obtain from God, through Mary, for her power extends over the earth and over purgatory. Her glory is great and her grace is powerful, surpassing that of the archangels, the angels, and the saints, rising to God who is the cause of her grandeur and glory. But this power, these glories and these favors, she has then that she may distribute them to us who live here below and who ask her for them.
To ask pardon for your sins and to remain humble is what please God and Mary most. Indeed it is because of her humility that Mary glorified herself before God, whereas she always kept silence about the other virtues and the other graces. Humility everywhere; humility in everything.
Come, O my soul, come to embrace the one whom you love! Cover with kisses Mary, your Mother and the Mother of God. Kiss also her Son Jesus, the most beautiful of children among all the children of men. You, O Mary, are accustomed to hearing the prayer of the poor and of orphans, and you never send away unconsoled those who persevere in coming to pray to you.
You, O Mary, are the virgin Mother of a God, you are the mysterious and loving tree, engendered by the eternal line of kings, the tree which has produced the mysterious flower announced for the salvation of the whole world. Jesus, our Savior and the savior of all, to whom be honor and glory for eternity.
May 28th
Chapter Twenty-Five of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How One Must go to Jesus Through Mary
Happy is he who daily comes to offer his homage, his praise, his heart, and his love to Jesus and Mary. Happy is he who invokes them and seeks them ! Oh! what sweetness is there in the name of Jesus! What sweetness also in the name of Mary. Happy is the pilgrim who in time of exile remembers constantly his fatherland on high, where Jesus and Mary, surrounded by choirs of angels, await him to give him joy for all eternity! Happy is the traveler who does not seek for a dwelling place here, but who always aspires to reign and to live with Christ in heaven! Happy are the poor and indigent who each day come to ask for bread at the table of the Mater, and who do not cease to plead, praying until they have received a few crumbs! Happy is he who is called to the feat of the Lamb, and approaches daily the banquet of the altar while waiting for the eternal banquet of heaven!
Every time that the faithful receive Communion, or that the priest offers the Holy Sacrifice, so often do they receive in union with Jesus and Mary food for the soul. He who communicates becomes by that act the apostle of Jesus, the page of Mary, the companion of the saints, the brother of the apostles, an intimate of God, the kinsman of the saints, and the heir of the happiness of heaven. Flee confusion, avoid dissipation of the soul, watch carefully over both your heart and your sense, if you wish to please Jesus and Mary. You will then receive all succor from on high, and, always, when you call for aid in the midst of perils, and in the greatest dangers, you will be heard by the Master Himself. It is thus that once on a tempestuous night the frightened apostles called upon Jesus. At once Jesus coming to them said, "Why are you fearful? O men of little faith! I am here; do not fear."
The voice of Jesus has the sweetness that consoles, the strength that supports, the joy that reassures, the grace that absolves, the goodness that pardons. The voice of Mary also reconciles, and adds to the sweetness of the honey the strength of its comb.
Oh, how pleasing, sweet and agreeable to hear your voice, O Mary, my Mother! What voice? The caressing and divine voice heard by John, the beloved disciple, the voice that said, "My son, behold your Mother." The apostle heard it from the lips of Jesus. I wish to hear it from your own lips.
O Mary! Say to your servant, "My son, here is your Mother: here she is near to you." At this voice, my soul, rekindled with joy, will find again strength and consolation, as John found them on receiving his Mother. Let your voice, sweeter than all others, come to my ears! O Mary, let it come to my heart! Your fruitful maternal words will bring to me the gifts of the Holy Ghost.
Chapter Twenty-Five of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How One Must go to Jesus Through Mary
Happy is he who daily comes to offer his homage, his praise, his heart, and his love to Jesus and Mary. Happy is he who invokes them and seeks them ! Oh! what sweetness is there in the name of Jesus! What sweetness also in the name of Mary. Happy is the pilgrim who in time of exile remembers constantly his fatherland on high, where Jesus and Mary, surrounded by choirs of angels, await him to give him joy for all eternity! Happy is the traveler who does not seek for a dwelling place here, but who always aspires to reign and to live with Christ in heaven! Happy are the poor and indigent who each day come to ask for bread at the table of the Mater, and who do not cease to plead, praying until they have received a few crumbs! Happy is he who is called to the feat of the Lamb, and approaches daily the banquet of the altar while waiting for the eternal banquet of heaven!
Every time that the faithful receive Communion, or that the priest offers the Holy Sacrifice, so often do they receive in union with Jesus and Mary food for the soul. He who communicates becomes by that act the apostle of Jesus, the page of Mary, the companion of the saints, the brother of the apostles, an intimate of God, the kinsman of the saints, and the heir of the happiness of heaven. Flee confusion, avoid dissipation of the soul, watch carefully over both your heart and your sense, if you wish to please Jesus and Mary. You will then receive all succor from on high, and, always, when you call for aid in the midst of perils, and in the greatest dangers, you will be heard by the Master Himself. It is thus that once on a tempestuous night the frightened apostles called upon Jesus. At once Jesus coming to them said, "Why are you fearful? O men of little faith! I am here; do not fear."
The voice of Jesus has the sweetness that consoles, the strength that supports, the joy that reassures, the grace that absolves, the goodness that pardons. The voice of Mary also reconciles, and adds to the sweetness of the honey the strength of its comb.
Oh, how pleasing, sweet and agreeable to hear your voice, O Mary, my Mother! What voice? The caressing and divine voice heard by John, the beloved disciple, the voice that said, "My son, behold your Mother." The apostle heard it from the lips of Jesus. I wish to hear it from your own lips.
O Mary! Say to your servant, "My son, here is your Mother: here she is near to you." At this voice, my soul, rekindled with joy, will find again strength and consolation, as John found them on receiving his Mother. Let your voice, sweeter than all others, come to my ears! O Mary, let it come to my heart! Your fruitful maternal words will bring to me the gifts of the Holy Ghost.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
May 27th
Chapter Twenty-Four of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How to Honor and Glorify Mary
Oh, if you would only progress in the praise and in the love of Jesus! If you would from day to day serve better His divine Mother and honor her better! But alas, you are weak, lukewarm, and negligent, often blamable and burdened with numerous sins, unworthy even to name Jesus and Mary. How then can you praise them worthily? Praise is questionable when seen on the lips of a sinner. Holiness can only be worthily praised by those who are themselves holy, and not by sinners. What then must you do? Be silent or speak? Wretched are you if you keep silent; wretched if you speak unworthily.
How then should one act in order to find mercy with God and not to merit reproach? Nothing is better to attract the love of Jesus and the compassion of His divine Mother than to humiliate yourself in all things, and at all times, and to put yourself always in the last place. Have a lowly opinion of yourself; consider yourself as worth nothing; God will be lenient with you and will pardon you: Mary will pray for you and will console you. Far from being confounded in their presence, you will, on the contrary, receive, for your praises an abundant and unending reward.
If you can do no better in your life, at least in everything that depends on you let your intention replace the action until you are able to improve. Let those who are fervent and full of devotion pray fervently and devoutly; let those who have little love or ardor offer to Jesus at least the little they have through the hands of Mary, the Mother of the living flame.
Alas! We would be unworthy by ourselves to appear in the presence of the Mother of God, and to speak in order to pray worthily before her, if Mary herself did not call sinners to the consoling assembly of the saints, according to the beloved word of the royal prophet: "The poor and needy shall come to praise thy name."
Comfort with your holy words, O Mary, my sorrowful soul and my dejected heart. Say only one word and once again I shall regain courage from your consolation. I do not ask for a difficult or an impossible work, but only that you might say to my heart and to my soul that intimate word of encouragement which alone can give back to me joy and happiness.
I come to you as an abandoned son: receive me with a mother's smile, O Mary, so that your repentant servant may know that he has found grace and pardon. Give me the help that my heart solicits and the consolation that my soul desires: give them to me without delay, O my mother!
Chapter Twenty-Four of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How to Honor and Glorify Mary
Oh, if you would only progress in the praise and in the love of Jesus! If you would from day to day serve better His divine Mother and honor her better! But alas, you are weak, lukewarm, and negligent, often blamable and burdened with numerous sins, unworthy even to name Jesus and Mary. How then can you praise them worthily? Praise is questionable when seen on the lips of a sinner. Holiness can only be worthily praised by those who are themselves holy, and not by sinners. What then must you do? Be silent or speak? Wretched are you if you keep silent; wretched if you speak unworthily.
How then should one act in order to find mercy with God and not to merit reproach? Nothing is better to attract the love of Jesus and the compassion of His divine Mother than to humiliate yourself in all things, and at all times, and to put yourself always in the last place. Have a lowly opinion of yourself; consider yourself as worth nothing; God will be lenient with you and will pardon you: Mary will pray for you and will console you. Far from being confounded in their presence, you will, on the contrary, receive, for your praises an abundant and unending reward.
If you can do no better in your life, at least in everything that depends on you let your intention replace the action until you are able to improve. Let those who are fervent and full of devotion pray fervently and devoutly; let those who have little love or ardor offer to Jesus at least the little they have through the hands of Mary, the Mother of the living flame.
Alas! We would be unworthy by ourselves to appear in the presence of the Mother of God, and to speak in order to pray worthily before her, if Mary herself did not call sinners to the consoling assembly of the saints, according to the beloved word of the royal prophet: "The poor and needy shall come to praise thy name."
Comfort with your holy words, O Mary, my sorrowful soul and my dejected heart. Say only one word and once again I shall regain courage from your consolation. I do not ask for a difficult or an impossible work, but only that you might say to my heart and to my soul that intimate word of encouragement which alone can give back to me joy and happiness.
I come to you as an abandoned son: receive me with a mother's smile, O Mary, so that your repentant servant may know that he has found grace and pardon. Give me the help that my heart solicits and the consolation that my soul desires: give them to me without delay, O my mother!
Sunday, May 26, 2013
May 26th
Chapter Twenty-Three of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How to Pray and Meditate According to Mary's Example
Before undertaking a work of piety, before beginning an ordinary task, lift your heart to heaven; invoke Jesus and Mary and confide yourself to their protection. Offer to God both yourself and your actions: your works will then become meritorious; they will be, at the same time, pleasing to God, useful to your neighbor, and profitable to yourself.
Let your intention be always pure, and let your will be directed toward the good. Work in silence and speak rarely, but let your prayer unceasingly rise to God daily through the thrice holy name of Jesus. Begin here below to chant, to love, to praise Jesus through the intercession of His Mother Mary. Praise often their glory and their name so as to merit to reign with them in heaven.
To praise Jesus is to possess sweetness and charm in your soul: to praise Mary is to possess beauty. When your soul is happy, sing: when it is sad, pray. The more often you exercise yourself in praise the more you will feel love deepen within you, and the more you will see devotion grow. Do not forget: you will not be forgotten. Be attentive, vigilant over yourself, and you will find in this way zeal and attention. You must bleed from the blows of a trial, you must be weighed down by adversity, in order to experience the joy of union with God and better to appreciate His grace.
Happy is he who knows how to listen to the counsel of Jesus and Mary for his own amendment! He will find joy if he has known tears, because pity in the divine Heart of Jesus surpasses the horror of our sins, and the heart of Mary is a limitless treasure of mercy and compassion for us.
O Mary, receive, at the return of its exile, my poor soul distraught among the perils of this world; lead it yourself to the gate of heaven in order to introduce it to the joys of paradise. Place me near you and say to Jesus the sweet and consoling word, the word of pardon. You who have received from the mouth of an angel the gratifying Ave of the salutation, grant me the power often to repeat reverently your name so full of sweetness. Receive, O Mary, my Queen and Mother, the fervent prayer of your servant and shed upon him from your throne on high, looks of tenderness and mercy.
Chapter Twenty-Three of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How to Pray and Meditate According to Mary's Example
Before undertaking a work of piety, before beginning an ordinary task, lift your heart to heaven; invoke Jesus and Mary and confide yourself to their protection. Offer to God both yourself and your actions: your works will then become meritorious; they will be, at the same time, pleasing to God, useful to your neighbor, and profitable to yourself.
Let your intention be always pure, and let your will be directed toward the good. Work in silence and speak rarely, but let your prayer unceasingly rise to God daily through the thrice holy name of Jesus. Begin here below to chant, to love, to praise Jesus through the intercession of His Mother Mary. Praise often their glory and their name so as to merit to reign with them in heaven.
To praise Jesus is to possess sweetness and charm in your soul: to praise Mary is to possess beauty. When your soul is happy, sing: when it is sad, pray. The more often you exercise yourself in praise the more you will feel love deepen within you, and the more you will see devotion grow. Do not forget: you will not be forgotten. Be attentive, vigilant over yourself, and you will find in this way zeal and attention. You must bleed from the blows of a trial, you must be weighed down by adversity, in order to experience the joy of union with God and better to appreciate His grace.
Happy is he who knows how to listen to the counsel of Jesus and Mary for his own amendment! He will find joy if he has known tears, because pity in the divine Heart of Jesus surpasses the horror of our sins, and the heart of Mary is a limitless treasure of mercy and compassion for us.
O Mary, receive, at the return of its exile, my poor soul distraught among the perils of this world; lead it yourself to the gate of heaven in order to introduce it to the joys of paradise. Place me near you and say to Jesus the sweet and consoling word, the word of pardon. You who have received from the mouth of an angel the gratifying Ave of the salutation, grant me the power often to repeat reverently your name so full of sweetness. Receive, O Mary, my Queen and Mother, the fervent prayer of your servant and shed upon him from your throne on high, looks of tenderness and mercy.
Saturday, May 25, 2013
May 25th
Chapter Twenty-Two of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Works and Example of Mary
For my spirit is sweet above honey, and my inheritance above honey and the honeycomb. It is in all truth that these lovely words, words of eternal wisdom, are said about Mary, the mother of Jesus our Savior. Jesus is gentle to us; Mary is all sweetness. There is in them neither bitterness nor sadness, but compassion, sweetness, love, and an untiring eternal mercy. Happy is he who follows the example of Jesus! Happy is he who confides himself to the love of Mary! He will unfailingly secure help and support from them.
Gather together as souvenirs the actions and words of Jesus while on earth. What He did, what He said: you will find in these more than all the treasures of the world. Meditate with equal attention on the words and actions of Mary: They will be for you a help and support more pleasing to the heart than balm and perfumes.
Just as the body has need of food in order to live; and perfume in order to be sweet-smelling, so too the soul has need of virtues to keep alive, and of meditations to remain strong. The more the soul gives itself to elevated matters, the more it confides itself to wise directors, the better it acquires the glorious science of the saints, and the more quickly it attains the joys of the blessed. Jesus and Mary are for us in every way sublime masters and models of sanctity; keep them constantly before your eyes and be attentive to them. Unite yourself to them; enter into intimacy with them.
Everywhere that anyone speaks on the mysteries of Jesus our Savior and of Mary His mother, listen carefully, and think often of what the names of Jesus and Mary hold for you of strength and sweetness.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, ever virgin, mother enriched while on earth with so many favors that the mind of man can neither comprehend them nor speak of them in their greatness, behold me before you, I am your servant, humbly prostrate at the foot of your throne, with all the ardor of a heart which knows how to love.
You are elevated above the archangels, holy Mother of God; you deserve to be, because you have been the most humble of women. You have found grace even in the eyes of God, O Virgin all beautiful and Mother incomparable. There is not in heaven nor on earth a creature worthy to be compared to you. Again I kneel humbly at your feet, O Mary, in order to be better able to offer you praises from reverent lips and a sinless heart.
Chapter Twenty-Two of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Works and Example of Mary
For my spirit is sweet above honey, and my inheritance above honey and the honeycomb. It is in all truth that these lovely words, words of eternal wisdom, are said about Mary, the mother of Jesus our Savior. Jesus is gentle to us; Mary is all sweetness. There is in them neither bitterness nor sadness, but compassion, sweetness, love, and an untiring eternal mercy. Happy is he who follows the example of Jesus! Happy is he who confides himself to the love of Mary! He will unfailingly secure help and support from them.
Gather together as souvenirs the actions and words of Jesus while on earth. What He did, what He said: you will find in these more than all the treasures of the world. Meditate with equal attention on the words and actions of Mary: They will be for you a help and support more pleasing to the heart than balm and perfumes.
Just as the body has need of food in order to live; and perfume in order to be sweet-smelling, so too the soul has need of virtues to keep alive, and of meditations to remain strong. The more the soul gives itself to elevated matters, the more it confides itself to wise directors, the better it acquires the glorious science of the saints, and the more quickly it attains the joys of the blessed. Jesus and Mary are for us in every way sublime masters and models of sanctity; keep them constantly before your eyes and be attentive to them. Unite yourself to them; enter into intimacy with them.
Everywhere that anyone speaks on the mysteries of Jesus our Savior and of Mary His mother, listen carefully, and think often of what the names of Jesus and Mary hold for you of strength and sweetness.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, ever virgin, mother enriched while on earth with so many favors that the mind of man can neither comprehend them nor speak of them in their greatness, behold me before you, I am your servant, humbly prostrate at the foot of your throne, with all the ardor of a heart which knows how to love.
You are elevated above the archangels, holy Mother of God; you deserve to be, because you have been the most humble of women. You have found grace even in the eyes of God, O Virgin all beautiful and Mother incomparable. There is not in heaven nor on earth a creature worthy to be compared to you. Again I kneel humbly at your feet, O Mary, in order to be better able to offer you praises from reverent lips and a sinless heart.
May 24th
Chapter Twenty-One of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Glorious Mysteries: The Interior Life of Mary
Willingly remain in solitude and silence in order to pray better: It is thus that Mary dwelt with the angel, alone in her retreat and speaking only with him....To retire and to be silent after the example of Mary is the only means of having peace of heart, of obtaining from God the gift of prayer. Watch the bee eager to gather its honey; it passes through the flowers but without attaching itself; scarcely laden with its sugar, it flees hastily toward the hive and hides the honey, so as to be able to enjoy it during the winter in solitude and tranquility. It thus encloses the fragrance of the perfume for fear that by going forth, flying hither and yonder, it may thus lose the fruit of its work.
Besides, perfumes carefully enclosed in their containers are better preserved. On the contrary, those which are left open, are not slow to lose their fragrance. Nor do flowers too often handled delay in losing their freshness. A flower blooms well only in gardens: it is sheltered behind walls. Roses born in the shade of the enclosure open quickly and are long fragrant; while those which are sown along the highways lose their odor, wither, and die. In like manner, a torch lit in high wind is likely to be extinguished; while the light protected by a shade remains burning. So it is with our devotion; it is conserved and grows in retirement, whereas it evaporates and is lost in noise.
Three things are especially necessary for man; three things are pleasing to God, to Mary and to the angels:
manual labor to counteract physical desire, love of study to counteract heaviness of heart, attention in prayer to counteract the art of the demon. Therefore, love retirement and work often if you wish to have peace of heart.
You are sweet and beautiful, O Mary, my mother, holy Mother of God full of grace. He alone could enumerate your virtues who could enumerate the stars in the heavens. Just as the visible sky appears above the earth, lofty and sublime, so does your life appear exalted above our lives. You alone merit to have been chosen from all eternity for the Mother of God. And of being, in time, consecrated by the Holy Spirit; greeted by angels; instructed by the archangel and overshadowed by the spirit of the Lord.
Chapter Twenty-One of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Glorious Mysteries: The Interior Life of Mary
Willingly remain in solitude and silence in order to pray better: It is thus that Mary dwelt with the angel, alone in her retreat and speaking only with him....To retire and to be silent after the example of Mary is the only means of having peace of heart, of obtaining from God the gift of prayer. Watch the bee eager to gather its honey; it passes through the flowers but without attaching itself; scarcely laden with its sugar, it flees hastily toward the hive and hides the honey, so as to be able to enjoy it during the winter in solitude and tranquility. It thus encloses the fragrance of the perfume for fear that by going forth, flying hither and yonder, it may thus lose the fruit of its work.
Besides, perfumes carefully enclosed in their containers are better preserved. On the contrary, those which are left open, are not slow to lose their fragrance. Nor do flowers too often handled delay in losing their freshness. A flower blooms well only in gardens: it is sheltered behind walls. Roses born in the shade of the enclosure open quickly and are long fragrant; while those which are sown along the highways lose their odor, wither, and die. In like manner, a torch lit in high wind is likely to be extinguished; while the light protected by a shade remains burning. So it is with our devotion; it is conserved and grows in retirement, whereas it evaporates and is lost in noise.
Three things are especially necessary for man; three things are pleasing to God, to Mary and to the angels:
manual labor to counteract physical desire, love of study to counteract heaviness of heart, attention in prayer to counteract the art of the demon. Therefore, love retirement and work often if you wish to have peace of heart.
You are sweet and beautiful, O Mary, my mother, holy Mother of God full of grace. He alone could enumerate your virtues who could enumerate the stars in the heavens. Just as the visible sky appears above the earth, lofty and sublime, so does your life appear exalted above our lives. You alone merit to have been chosen from all eternity for the Mother of God. And of being, in time, consecrated by the Holy Spirit; greeted by angels; instructed by the archangel and overshadowed by the spirit of the Lord.
May 23rd
Chapter Twenty of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How to Act After the Example of Mary
My memory will live in the succession of centuries, is said in Ecclesiastes in reference to Mary. Mary, humble and poor in everything, a model of patience and perfection, from the day of her birth until the hour of her death lived poor and hidden, a life of suffering. You who suffer, come to her always, and each day search for what you can put at her feet, as at the feet of a mother, in eager token of respect and love. If you wish to rejoice in heaven with Mary, suffer poverty on earth with Mary. Take for a model her examples both of poverty and humility. Flee the vain amusements of men; watch lest you offend by useless words or unworthy acts, either Jesus your God, or Mary your mother.
It is certainly not a simple and slight fault to offend such loving protectors. They see at all times how you work and how you try to reform yourself; and, depending on your efforts, they regulate their help. However, their love surpasses your wickedness, and their goodness always incites repentance. If you realize that you have erred, change your resolution for the better. Persevere in the good and know how to give thanks for all the gifts received. It is thus that Mary acted in her life of union with Jesus here on earth. Learn from the example of this goodness to accept the annoyances of life, to submit yourself in everything to the unknown designs chosen for you by God from all eternity. Jesus will then be for you a protector, and Mary a loving and faithful mother. Be on your part a devoted child, a faithful servant, always eager for that which is good.
I greet you with composure, Virgin full of grace, the Lord is with you! I greet you, sole hope of the poor! I greet you, gentle mother of orphans! I have revealed to you, up until now to you alone, my failings: henceforth I shall reveal them with still more assurance, because I feel that a great virtue flows from you, and that your name exhales a perfume that embalms the heart and comforts the soul. O sweet name of Mary, name of grace and charm, name always sweet to say, and sweet to think upon, name fashioned in heaven, name carried by the angels, name recommended by the Gospel to men, when as if by making of it a eulogy: the name of the chosen virgin was: Mary!
Chapter Twenty of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How to Act After the Example of Mary
My memory will live in the succession of centuries, is said in Ecclesiastes in reference to Mary. Mary, humble and poor in everything, a model of patience and perfection, from the day of her birth until the hour of her death lived poor and hidden, a life of suffering. You who suffer, come to her always, and each day search for what you can put at her feet, as at the feet of a mother, in eager token of respect and love. If you wish to rejoice in heaven with Mary, suffer poverty on earth with Mary. Take for a model her examples both of poverty and humility. Flee the vain amusements of men; watch lest you offend by useless words or unworthy acts, either Jesus your God, or Mary your mother.
It is certainly not a simple and slight fault to offend such loving protectors. They see at all times how you work and how you try to reform yourself; and, depending on your efforts, they regulate their help. However, their love surpasses your wickedness, and their goodness always incites repentance. If you realize that you have erred, change your resolution for the better. Persevere in the good and know how to give thanks for all the gifts received. It is thus that Mary acted in her life of union with Jesus here on earth. Learn from the example of this goodness to accept the annoyances of life, to submit yourself in everything to the unknown designs chosen for you by God from all eternity. Jesus will then be for you a protector, and Mary a loving and faithful mother. Be on your part a devoted child, a faithful servant, always eager for that which is good.
I greet you with composure, Virgin full of grace, the Lord is with you! I greet you, sole hope of the poor! I greet you, gentle mother of orphans! I have revealed to you, up until now to you alone, my failings: henceforth I shall reveal them with still more assurance, because I feel that a great virtue flows from you, and that your name exhales a perfume that embalms the heart and comforts the soul. O sweet name of Mary, name of grace and charm, name always sweet to say, and sweet to think upon, name fashioned in heaven, name carried by the angels, name recommended by the Gospel to men, when as if by making of it a eulogy: the name of the chosen virgin was: Mary!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
May 22nd
Chapter Nineteen of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How One Must Serve Jesus After Mary's Example
Who are the highest in heaven, and who were the most humble on this earth among the creatures endowed with life? Is it not Jesus? Is it not Mary? Jesus made Himself for us the servant of all, and Mary calls herself a servant. The earth proclaims the grandeur and the heavens in chorus sing the sublime dignity of Jesus and Mary, here below and on high. Oh, you may unite your voice to these voices, to sing the sweet names of Jesus and Mary! It is also good to put yourself in the service of those who have made themselves our servants. Indeed, serve the Lord, you sons of men, serve Him who first deigned to serve you. Serve Mary too: she gave you the example of being humble and of giving service. It is a duty for you and it is to your advantage to honor before all, these two powerful models. You must pray to them daily, even hourly, because they have the power to conquer the enemy and to procure the joys of victory.
Thus, in every condition hurry to Jesus and, at the same time, hurry to Mary. Expose to them always your needs and your troubles. Confess your sins and weep for your forgetfulness: arouse your hope and wait for grace. If you fall, alas! with facility, hasten to rise all the more quickly. Sincere prayers are always listened to and true pleadings are always heard. The angels in their turn will rejoice for you on seeing you cleansed from the ugliness of sin. For your part, avoid sin henceforth. Mary will obtain for you the pardon of Jesus. Pray to Jesus and Mary for the honor that is due to them: Jesus and Mary will then give you assistance and courage.
It is to you, O Jesus, my Lord and my God, to you, O Mary, Mother of God and my mother, that I wish to confide my body and soul. You alone are my hope and my help in my troubles and in my tribulations. Let your tenderness and your affection sustain me everywhere! This is my only prayer.
Chapter Nineteen of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How One Must Serve Jesus After Mary's Example
Who are the highest in heaven, and who were the most humble on this earth among the creatures endowed with life? Is it not Jesus? Is it not Mary? Jesus made Himself for us the servant of all, and Mary calls herself a servant. The earth proclaims the grandeur and the heavens in chorus sing the sublime dignity of Jesus and Mary, here below and on high. Oh, you may unite your voice to these voices, to sing the sweet names of Jesus and Mary! It is also good to put yourself in the service of those who have made themselves our servants. Indeed, serve the Lord, you sons of men, serve Him who first deigned to serve you. Serve Mary too: she gave you the example of being humble and of giving service. It is a duty for you and it is to your advantage to honor before all, these two powerful models. You must pray to them daily, even hourly, because they have the power to conquer the enemy and to procure the joys of victory.
Thus, in every condition hurry to Jesus and, at the same time, hurry to Mary. Expose to them always your needs and your troubles. Confess your sins and weep for your forgetfulness: arouse your hope and wait for grace. If you fall, alas! with facility, hasten to rise all the more quickly. Sincere prayers are always listened to and true pleadings are always heard. The angels in their turn will rejoice for you on seeing you cleansed from the ugliness of sin. For your part, avoid sin henceforth. Mary will obtain for you the pardon of Jesus. Pray to Jesus and Mary for the honor that is due to them: Jesus and Mary will then give you assistance and courage.
It is to you, O Jesus, my Lord and my God, to you, O Mary, Mother of God and my mother, that I wish to confide my body and soul. You alone are my hope and my help in my troubles and in my tribulations. Let your tenderness and your affection sustain me everywhere! This is my only prayer.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
May 21st
Chapter Eighteen of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How to Suffer After the Example of Mary
If you truly love your mother Mary, and if you truly desire her patronage in the midst of your own tribulations, remain with her standing near the cross. Share with a full heart in her mother's sorrows and in the sorrows of Christ, he beloved Son: she will then be near you at the hour of death. He who often and lovingly meditates on the sorrows borne by Jesus, and on the tears shed by His mother, can have full confidence in the mercy and pity of God, and likewise in His affection and in that of His divine mother! Oh! how happy at the hour of death will be that soul which on every day of its life loved deeply both Jesus and Mary, and each day found its place near the cross, in union with Jesus and Mary!
Happy the one who, scorning all earthly consolation, chose in this life Mary for his consolation and his mother. There is no doubt that at the hour of his death, this mother will say to her Son the blessed and gentle word that consoles the poor and helps the orphan.
If you love Jesus, come, take up His cross; walk with the cross; remain near the cross; embrace this cross and do not forsake it until you have arrived near the One who gives the glory to the cross. If you wish in your trials, in spite of the sorrow, to find some consolation, go to Mary at once both virgin and mother, to the mother who watches near the cross, to the virgin who weeps at the foot of the cross.
I come again to ask you Mary, Mother of God and my mother, to be willing to look upon me favorably, and to consider me with a compassionate heart, now, in the future, and at the hour of death. Receive me as a son under your protection; enfold me maternally in your arms at all times, but especially at my last hour. Remember me, and come to my aid, you who are my sovereign and my mother. Console my soul affrighted at itself, O you, my sole hope in my tribulations. Defend it against the assaults of the demon, so that he will never dare to approach it, in the presence of you who deign to visit it. Obtain for me, Mary, I plead with you, through your pious intercession pardon and indulgence from your Son, whom I have so often and so greatly, alas! offended by my faults and my sins.
Chapter Eighteen of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
How to Suffer After the Example of Mary
If you truly love your mother Mary, and if you truly desire her patronage in the midst of your own tribulations, remain with her standing near the cross. Share with a full heart in her mother's sorrows and in the sorrows of Christ, he beloved Son: she will then be near you at the hour of death. He who often and lovingly meditates on the sorrows borne by Jesus, and on the tears shed by His mother, can have full confidence in the mercy and pity of God, and likewise in His affection and in that of His divine mother! Oh! how happy at the hour of death will be that soul which on every day of its life loved deeply both Jesus and Mary, and each day found its place near the cross, in union with Jesus and Mary!
Happy the one who, scorning all earthly consolation, chose in this life Mary for his consolation and his mother. There is no doubt that at the hour of his death, this mother will say to her Son the blessed and gentle word that consoles the poor and helps the orphan.
If you love Jesus, come, take up His cross; walk with the cross; remain near the cross; embrace this cross and do not forsake it until you have arrived near the One who gives the glory to the cross. If you wish in your trials, in spite of the sorrow, to find some consolation, go to Mary at once both virgin and mother, to the mother who watches near the cross, to the virgin who weeps at the foot of the cross.
I come again to ask you Mary, Mother of God and my mother, to be willing to look upon me favorably, and to consider me with a compassionate heart, now, in the future, and at the hour of death. Receive me as a son under your protection; enfold me maternally in your arms at all times, but especially at my last hour. Remember me, and come to my aid, you who are my sovereign and my mother. Console my soul affrighted at itself, O you, my sole hope in my tribulations. Defend it against the assaults of the demon, so that he will never dare to approach it, in the presence of you who deign to visit it. Obtain for me, Mary, I plead with you, through your pious intercession pardon and indulgence from your Son, whom I have so often and so greatly, alas! offended by my faults and my sins.
Monday, May 20, 2013
May 20th
Chapter Seventeen of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Bitterness of Mary
She remained alone at the foot of the Cross, she stood alone, Mary, the mother of Jesus, as the apostle tells us in his divine account. After the memory of the cross of Jesus, the most beautiful memory is that of Mary, His Mother, who alone had the courage to remain standing near her Son dying on the cross, dying to save the world from death....
No mother in this world in giving birth to a beloved child felt a happiness equal to that of Mary, who alone had for a Son the same Son as God. No mother experienced a sorrow equal to that of Mary, at the death of her Son. Mary had to suffer in her compassion all the sorrows of her Son in the Passion. Indeed she stood near the cross in tears, her heart feeling at every grief the pain of a sword which transpierced it with bitterness. It was truly a marvel that she was able to support in her virginal body a like suffering; for her soul experienced at each torture, a torture equal to that of her Son. O ineffable martyrdom, ineffable grief of a mother, more cruelly agonized in her heart at the sight of her dying Son, than a martyr in his body overwhelmed by torment.
O Mother, I know that I am not worthy to lift my eyes to to your admirable face, to this holy face haloed by glory, which the angels of heaven wonder at on their knees. You appear to me, O Mother, as adorned with deep-hued roses and foliage of gold, and I remain frightened by my impurity. However, O Mary, because of your goodness I retain in spite of everything, the assured hope of obtaining once more the grace of pardon if you deign to intercede again for me. What may I wish, expect, or desire to obtain from the most indulgent of mothers, as from the most compassionate of virgins, if it is not pardon and consolation in the calmness and joy of a sincere repentance?
Chapter Seventeen of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Bitterness of Mary
She remained alone at the foot of the Cross, she stood alone, Mary, the mother of Jesus, as the apostle tells us in his divine account. After the memory of the cross of Jesus, the most beautiful memory is that of Mary, His Mother, who alone had the courage to remain standing near her Son dying on the cross, dying to save the world from death....
No mother in this world in giving birth to a beloved child felt a happiness equal to that of Mary, who alone had for a Son the same Son as God. No mother experienced a sorrow equal to that of Mary, at the death of her Son. Mary had to suffer in her compassion all the sorrows of her Son in the Passion. Indeed she stood near the cross in tears, her heart feeling at every grief the pain of a sword which transpierced it with bitterness. It was truly a marvel that she was able to support in her virginal body a like suffering; for her soul experienced at each torture, a torture equal to that of her Son. O ineffable martyrdom, ineffable grief of a mother, more cruelly agonized in her heart at the sight of her dying Son, than a martyr in his body overwhelmed by torment.
O Mother, I know that I am not worthy to lift my eyes to to your admirable face, to this holy face haloed by glory, which the angels of heaven wonder at on their knees. You appear to me, O Mother, as adorned with deep-hued roses and foliage of gold, and I remain frightened by my impurity. However, O Mary, because of your goodness I retain in spite of everything, the assured hope of obtaining once more the grace of pardon if you deign to intercede again for me. What may I wish, expect, or desire to obtain from the most indulgent of mothers, as from the most compassionate of virgins, if it is not pardon and consolation in the calmness and joy of a sincere repentance?
Sunday, May 19, 2013
May 19th
Chapter Sixteen of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Griefs and Sufferings of Mary
Mary did not live a single day without suffering; nevertheless in the midst of her greatest sufferings she was never without consolation. Every grief borne for Jesus brings to the soul sweetness and joy. The more we suffer under the weight of the blows, the more we merit the favors of grace.
Yes, Mary suffered, and suffered sorrowfully, because of the sins of the great mass of men. She suffered in like measure with the just, with those tried by temptations and troubles. She suffered for the ingratitude of men to whom God sent His Son in order to reopen the lost Paradise; and for the obstinate loss of the wicked who prefer to heaven things of this earth, and who refuse to listen to the Word of God. She suffered to see the just oppressed; the impious, far from God, everywhere victorious; the poor scorned and the rich exalted. She suffered to see in all places lukewarmness brought to the service of God, and the haste which offended Him. She suffered to see the world given over to evil, refusing to turn its eyes toward the light that God Himself came to bring into the world. These sorrows were like piercing blades sheathed in this Mother's compassionate heart. Yet, she was patient -- always, suffering in silence a life of martyrdom, weeping for the salvation of men.
Come, O Mary, tender and gentle Mother, to pay a visit to my soul in its tribulation. You alone can give peace, for you alone know how to bring sweetness to the sufferings of the heart. Come, extend your hand to the fallen servant, come, lift him up again by grace. Hasten, O Mary, chosen Mother of God, to show to us all once more the abundance of your piety. You see me, fallen so low, yet I have not forgotten you, nor shall I ever forget you, O my Mother.
Chapter Sixteen of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Griefs and Sufferings of Mary
Mary did not live a single day without suffering; nevertheless in the midst of her greatest sufferings she was never without consolation. Every grief borne for Jesus brings to the soul sweetness and joy. The more we suffer under the weight of the blows, the more we merit the favors of grace.
Yes, Mary suffered, and suffered sorrowfully, because of the sins of the great mass of men. She suffered in like measure with the just, with those tried by temptations and troubles. She suffered for the ingratitude of men to whom God sent His Son in order to reopen the lost Paradise; and for the obstinate loss of the wicked who prefer to heaven things of this earth, and who refuse to listen to the Word of God. She suffered to see the just oppressed; the impious, far from God, everywhere victorious; the poor scorned and the rich exalted. She suffered to see in all places lukewarmness brought to the service of God, and the haste which offended Him. She suffered to see the world given over to evil, refusing to turn its eyes toward the light that God Himself came to bring into the world. These sorrows were like piercing blades sheathed in this Mother's compassionate heart. Yet, she was patient -- always, suffering in silence a life of martyrdom, weeping for the salvation of men.
Come, O Mary, tender and gentle Mother, to pay a visit to my soul in its tribulation. You alone can give peace, for you alone know how to bring sweetness to the sufferings of the heart. Come, extend your hand to the fallen servant, come, lift him up again by grace. Hasten, O Mary, chosen Mother of God, to show to us all once more the abundance of your piety. You see me, fallen so low, yet I have not forgotten you, nor shall I ever forget you, O my Mother.
May 18th
Chapter Fifteen of Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Seeking Christ After the counsels of Mary
If it happens sometimes that you lose Christ, do not despair, do not give up, do not cease to give yourself in prayer, do not seek earthly consolation; remain in solitude and weep for yourself; then only will you find Jesus once again, you will find Him in the temple of your heart. No, it is not at the crossroads of the city, nor in the gatherings of those who amuse themselves, nor among earthly reunions, that Jesus is found; but certainly only in the midst of the just, and in the company of the saints.
It is in tears that you must seek Him whom you have lost in pleasures. It is by faithful service that you must attract Him whom you have deserted by negligence. It is by humility that you must recall Him whom you have driven afar by pride. It is by prayer that you must draw Him who does not listen to a heedless heart. It is with fear and trembling that you should pray to Him who loves not pride and laziness. It is with gratitude that you should praise Him who is ever ready to give His grace. It is with an ardent love that you must love Him who loves everyone and pardons everyone, who gives His graces to all without regret, who has never abandoned anyone.
O Mary, O Mother, when the gates of heaven are closed because of my sins, when on all sides entrance is forbidden to me, when all strength and all counsel abandon me, when I am unable to aid myself in anything, when the weariness of life and grief of heart overwhelm me to the point of no longer loving anything, when the sun of joy is changed into a night of mourning, when consolations from on high vanish, and when despair presses in upon me from every part, when the wind of temptations arises, and the waves of passion grow stronger, when illness itself overpowers me, when all adversities gather and fight against me, where shall I flee and to whom shall I turn, if it is not to you, Mary, who alone knows how to console the unfortunate and to succour the wretched? Toward whom then shall I turn to attain unhindered, the haven of salvation, to whom if not to you, Mary, Star of the Sea, who shines always in the firmament, who always offers the flaming torch of grace.
Chapter Fifteen of Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Seeking Christ After the counsels of Mary
If it happens sometimes that you lose Christ, do not despair, do not give up, do not cease to give yourself in prayer, do not seek earthly consolation; remain in solitude and weep for yourself; then only will you find Jesus once again, you will find Him in the temple of your heart. No, it is not at the crossroads of the city, nor in the gatherings of those who amuse themselves, nor among earthly reunions, that Jesus is found; but certainly only in the midst of the just, and in the company of the saints.
It is in tears that you must seek Him whom you have lost in pleasures. It is by faithful service that you must attract Him whom you have deserted by negligence. It is by humility that you must recall Him whom you have driven afar by pride. It is by prayer that you must draw Him who does not listen to a heedless heart. It is with fear and trembling that you should pray to Him who loves not pride and laziness. It is with gratitude that you should praise Him who is ever ready to give His grace. It is with an ardent love that you must love Him who loves everyone and pardons everyone, who gives His graces to all without regret, who has never abandoned anyone.
O Mary, O Mother, when the gates of heaven are closed because of my sins, when on all sides entrance is forbidden to me, when all strength and all counsel abandon me, when I am unable to aid myself in anything, when the weariness of life and grief of heart overwhelm me to the point of no longer loving anything, when the sun of joy is changed into a night of mourning, when consolations from on high vanish, and when despair presses in upon me from every part, when the wind of temptations arises, and the waves of passion grow stronger, when illness itself overpowers me, when all adversities gather and fight against me, where shall I flee and to whom shall I turn, if it is not to you, Mary, who alone knows how to console the unfortunate and to succour the wretched? Toward whom then shall I turn to attain unhindered, the haven of salvation, to whom if not to you, Mary, Star of the Sea, who shines always in the firmament, who always offers the flaming torch of grace.
May 17th
Chapter Fourteen of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Mary's Love and Sorrow
The infant Jesus remained at Jerusalem after the Pasch and was lost; and His parents did not at first perceive it on their return....Alas! how could there be a festival for the parents experiencing so harrowing a trial. For there is no misfortune more dreadful for the sad and afflicted, than to lose that which may alone serve as a consolation to them....
Likewise, it was to give us a model of patience in grief that God permitted Mary to lose her Son, that after having lost Him she might seek Him weeping; that she might find Him only after three days, and that after having found Him, she might more joyfully take back with her her Treasure.
Let none dare to rely upon himself as if he possessed Christ alone for himself. Let no one scorn others, for he knows not if he himself is pleasing to God. Thus Jesus remains hidden for many and manifests Himself only to a few. He showed His Divinity when He wished, and when He wished He hid Himself, acting always with a purpose and for a reason.
Come then to may aid in this great sorrow, O Mother of God and Mother of Mercy. Help me, divine Mistress Mary, you who give access in heaven to Life. I seek in you peace and happiness. You know how sorrowful it is to lose Jesus, and also how sweet to find Him again. If this trial was sent to you, Mary, to you who were sinless, what wonder if it is imposed upon me who so often have offended my God? What must I do to find Jesus again?
Oh, if there is for me any hope of finding Him once more, it is in your help that I have placed my hope, O Mary. It is in your aid and in your merits, you who are more cherished and nearer to Him than any one else. Teach me then to seek my Beloved until I have found Him. O Mary, accompany me yourself. Then shall I chant joyously with you: "Congratulate me for I have found my Beloved, the Beloved of my heart, He for whom my soul longs."
May 16th
Chapter Thirteen of the Imitation of Mary
The Exultations of Mary
My soul has exulted before God, my Saviour. Exult again and again, Mary, because you give to the world the joy of its salvation. Rejoice, O Immaculate Mother, because you preserve the honor of virginity. Exult with happiness, virgin made mother, because you preserve the honor of virginity, from the maledictions which weigh upon women.
You can surely rejoice before God. Him whom the earth and heaven united, could not contain, you have within you. You warm Him in your arms, you place Him joyfully in His crib, you alone, Mother, can adore Jesus, your Son, born of you in time, He who, before you, before all time, possesses God as Father from all eternity. You alone fulfill the duties of a mother to the God who confers maternity on you. You alone can truly exult in Him who renders you sublime and heavenly.
O Mary, I know my sins and my failings. I know that I am unworthy to see Jesus, but I am unable to rest until I have contemplated Him. Neither can I forbear to plead, for I know He wishes to be asked. My heart urges me to insist, for I know that you, too, wish that we ask. Thus, O my Mother, I desire to persevere in prayer and contemplation.
Chapter Thirteen of the Imitation of Mary
The Exultations of Mary
My soul has exulted before God, my Saviour. Exult again and again, Mary, because you give to the world the joy of its salvation. Rejoice, O Immaculate Mother, because you preserve the honor of virginity. Exult with happiness, virgin made mother, because you preserve the honor of virginity, from the maledictions which weigh upon women.
You can surely rejoice before God. Him whom the earth and heaven united, could not contain, you have within you. You warm Him in your arms, you place Him joyfully in His crib, you alone, Mother, can adore Jesus, your Son, born of you in time, He who, before you, before all time, possesses God as Father from all eternity. You alone fulfill the duties of a mother to the God who confers maternity on you. You alone can truly exult in Him who renders you sublime and heavenly.
O Mary, I know my sins and my failings. I know that I am unworthy to see Jesus, but I am unable to rest until I have contemplated Him. Neither can I forbear to plead, for I know He wishes to be asked. My heart urges me to insist, for I know that you, too, wish that we ask. Thus, O my Mother, I desire to persevere in prayer and contemplation.
Friday, May 17, 2013
May 15th
Chapter Twelve
The Delights of Mary
No language on this earth will be able to express the delights and joys of the virgin Mary. No mind will ever be able to comprehend the abundance of her joys as virgin, the greatness of her consolations as mother; For, the more abundant is the infusion of grace, the more numerous also are the gifts of happiness. In like manner, the more frequent are the visits of God, the more ardent, too are desire and love.
Imitate, therefore, the Mother of the Saviour, so as to be numbered among her children. Try attentively to walk in the steps of Mary on the road of virtue, in order to attain to glory with her.
Have intense grief for your past lukewarmness, for your faults, Alas! not yet overcome. Pray that all creatures may glorify God and observe His laws. Give thanks for the divine benefits granted through the Mother of God. Render to her all honor and all reverence; for, if the natural law obliges children to love their mother according to the flesh, how much more ought we to testify affection and show tenderness to the Mother of grace? It is a duty to love above all mothers Mary who is, at the same time, Mother of God, Mother of Holy Church, and our own Mother.
How shall I ever be sad of heart when you give your consolation, Mary? How could one fear the enemy, one who can, at each moment, have recourse to you? Incline, O Mother filled with tenderness, incline your ears to my humble prayers.
Incline, O Mother filled with tenderness, like Rebecca, toward your servant, and give him a few drops to drink. Pour into me a part, however small it may be, of that grace and of that sweet consolation which is mysteriously hidden in you.
This grace is at all times desirable for all persons, it is always pleasant to receive; it is indispensable for me at this moment. The smallest drop placed on lips by you, Mary, seems to me so powerful and so great in its excellence, that all other pleasures on earth seem vile, without value, and equal to nothing.
Chapter Twelve
The Delights of Mary
No language on this earth will be able to express the delights and joys of the virgin Mary. No mind will ever be able to comprehend the abundance of her joys as virgin, the greatness of her consolations as mother; For, the more abundant is the infusion of grace, the more numerous also are the gifts of happiness. In like manner, the more frequent are the visits of God, the more ardent, too are desire and love.
Imitate, therefore, the Mother of the Saviour, so as to be numbered among her children. Try attentively to walk in the steps of Mary on the road of virtue, in order to attain to glory with her.
Have intense grief for your past lukewarmness, for your faults, Alas! not yet overcome. Pray that all creatures may glorify God and observe His laws. Give thanks for the divine benefits granted through the Mother of God. Render to her all honor and all reverence; for, if the natural law obliges children to love their mother according to the flesh, how much more ought we to testify affection and show tenderness to the Mother of grace? It is a duty to love above all mothers Mary who is, at the same time, Mother of God, Mother of Holy Church, and our own Mother.
How shall I ever be sad of heart when you give your consolation, Mary? How could one fear the enemy, one who can, at each moment, have recourse to you? Incline, O Mother filled with tenderness, incline your ears to my humble prayers.
Incline, O Mother filled with tenderness, like Rebecca, toward your servant, and give him a few drops to drink. Pour into me a part, however small it may be, of that grace and of that sweet consolation which is mysteriously hidden in you.
This grace is at all times desirable for all persons, it is always pleasant to receive; it is indispensable for me at this moment. The smallest drop placed on lips by you, Mary, seems to me so powerful and so great in its excellence, that all other pleasures on earth seem vile, without value, and equal to nothing.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
May 14th
Part II, the Sorrowful Mysteries
Chapter Eleven of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Pious Patronage of Mary
Happy is he who knows how to accept in this life, both Jesus and Mary, and the angels and the saints, for guides on the way and counselors in doubt, for masters at work and directors in repose, for companions at home and friends when abroad, for aids in combat and helpers in dangers, for patrons at death and judges at judgment, for intercessors with God and co-heirs to heaven.
You, who wish to leave the world and its attractions, let Jesus and Mary be your only loves: let God be your Father and Jesus your brother; let Mary, henceforth, be your only Mother. Take the angels for your friends, the unfortunate for your brothers, the humble and the poor for your companions.
If you are with us in the struggle, Mary, who then will dare to rise against us? And if you give us your protection, who then will ever be able to repulse us? Extend over me, extend your arms, Mary, because I wish to seek my refuge in your shadow.
Say to my soul: I am your advocate, fear nothing,. As a mother consoles her son, thus I shall console you, my child. How sweet are your words, Mary, and how your voice consoles me, Mother! Allow my heart always to hear it.
Part II, the Sorrowful Mysteries
Chapter Eleven of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Pious Patronage of Mary
Happy is he who knows how to accept in this life, both Jesus and Mary, and the angels and the saints, for guides on the way and counselors in doubt, for masters at work and directors in repose, for companions at home and friends when abroad, for aids in combat and helpers in dangers, for patrons at death and judges at judgment, for intercessors with God and co-heirs to heaven.
You, who wish to leave the world and its attractions, let Jesus and Mary be your only loves: let God be your Father and Jesus your brother; let Mary, henceforth, be your only Mother. Take the angels for your friends, the unfortunate for your brothers, the humble and the poor for your companions.
If you are with us in the struggle, Mary, who then will dare to rise against us? And if you give us your protection, who then will ever be able to repulse us? Extend over me, extend your arms, Mary, because I wish to seek my refuge in your shadow.
Say to my soul: I am your advocate, fear nothing,. As a mother consoles her son, thus I shall console you, my child. How sweet are your words, Mary, and how your voice consoles me, Mother! Allow my heart always to hear it.
Monday, May 13, 2013
May 13th
Chapter Ten of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Divine Maternity of Mary
A new marvel appears in creation: by the power of God a woman encompasses the Creator in her flesh. What is this marvel, O Lord Jesus, but your conception by the Holy Ghost and your nativity of the Virgin Mary? It is the nativity not yet understood here below, it has not had a parallel, it will never have an equal. O holy and truly blessed nativity which puts to flight the ancient sin, and which brings to the world a new sanctity.
Rise, new Mother; sing, O Mary, you are the woman spoken of by the prophet, you are she who by her maternity merits this ineffable glory, this indescribably glory, for you have borne within your womb, O Immaculate One, enclosed in your virginal flesh Him whom the whole world knows not how to contain: You have thus become more than the whole universe.
There is not here below a woman equal to you in power, in grandeur, in beauty, in meekness, in charity, in sweetness, in compassion, in fidelity, nor in love.
I desire, today, to choose you for my mother, and I desire, Mary, to confide myself entirely to you. I would desire that this choice might be confirmed by you forever; for it suffices for me, Mary, to be able to be united to you for all time. I shall then greatly rejoice in your name, and I shall magnify your praises for all eternity, O Mary.
Chapter Ten of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Divine Maternity of Mary
A new marvel appears in creation: by the power of God a woman encompasses the Creator in her flesh. What is this marvel, O Lord Jesus, but your conception by the Holy Ghost and your nativity of the Virgin Mary? It is the nativity not yet understood here below, it has not had a parallel, it will never have an equal. O holy and truly blessed nativity which puts to flight the ancient sin, and which brings to the world a new sanctity.
Rise, new Mother; sing, O Mary, you are the woman spoken of by the prophet, you are she who by her maternity merits this ineffable glory, this indescribably glory, for you have borne within your womb, O Immaculate One, enclosed in your virginal flesh Him whom the whole world knows not how to contain: You have thus become more than the whole universe.
There is not here below a woman equal to you in power, in grandeur, in beauty, in meekness, in charity, in sweetness, in compassion, in fidelity, nor in love.
I desire, today, to choose you for my mother, and I desire, Mary, to confide myself entirely to you. I would desire that this choice might be confirmed by you forever; for it suffices for me, Mary, to be able to be united to you for all time. I shall then greatly rejoice in your name, and I shall magnify your praises for all eternity, O Mary.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
May 12th
Chapter Nine of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Symbols of Mary
You are, O Mary the dwelling place of God, you are also, O Mary, the gate of heaven; the garden of delights; the source of graces; the glory of angels; the salvation of men. You are the art of living; the splendor of virtue; the light of day; the hope of the unhappy; the health of the sick; the mother of orphans. O Virgin of virgins, all beautiful and fragrant, you have in yourself, O Mary, the brilliance of the star, the charm of the rose, the beauty of the dawn, the gentleness of the moon, the depth of the pearl, the splendor of the sun.
We all hasten then to you, O Mary, as sons to a beloved mother, as orphans to a mother whom they love. Through your merits protect us from all evil. through your prayers deliver us from all peril.
O Mary, golden rose, sweet and beautiful at once, may my urgent prayers rise to you! Here I stand, knocking at the door of your dwelling, assured of obtaining your mercy, in the midst of my sorrows and tribulations. Indeed, you are the Mother of mercy, and you give to the sinner hope of pardon.
Your tenderness, O Mary, and your goodness surpass all that can be expressed here below. You are elevated above the glory , above the honors which the saints possess, higher than the virtues, the benignity, the sweetness and the charm of blessed spirits.
And if it were not thus, O Mary, how could you inundate the unfortunate with so much sweetness, with so many consolations, with such great hope, and such great contrition. You will never be impoverished, for in you is conceived the Source of all goodness, You are the ornament of the heavens, and the joy of the saints, and you are the tabernacle of the Holy of Holies.
Our forefathers longed for you for aeons. You, the chosen mother and the elected virgin, who was to grant all pardon on earth and all fullness in heaven.
Chapter Nine of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Symbols of Mary
You are, O Mary the dwelling place of God, you are also, O Mary, the gate of heaven; the garden of delights; the source of graces; the glory of angels; the salvation of men. You are the art of living; the splendor of virtue; the light of day; the hope of the unhappy; the health of the sick; the mother of orphans. O Virgin of virgins, all beautiful and fragrant, you have in yourself, O Mary, the brilliance of the star, the charm of the rose, the beauty of the dawn, the gentleness of the moon, the depth of the pearl, the splendor of the sun.
We all hasten then to you, O Mary, as sons to a beloved mother, as orphans to a mother whom they love. Through your merits protect us from all evil. through your prayers deliver us from all peril.
O Mary, golden rose, sweet and beautiful at once, may my urgent prayers rise to you! Here I stand, knocking at the door of your dwelling, assured of obtaining your mercy, in the midst of my sorrows and tribulations. Indeed, you are the Mother of mercy, and you give to the sinner hope of pardon.
Your tenderness, O Mary, and your goodness surpass all that can be expressed here below. You are elevated above the glory , above the honors which the saints possess, higher than the virtues, the benignity, the sweetness and the charm of blessed spirits.
And if it were not thus, O Mary, how could you inundate the unfortunate with so much sweetness, with so many consolations, with such great hope, and such great contrition. You will never be impoverished, for in you is conceived the Source of all goodness, You are the ornament of the heavens, and the joy of the saints, and you are the tabernacle of the Holy of Holies.
Our forefathers longed for you for aeons. You, the chosen mother and the elected virgin, who was to grant all pardon on earth and all fullness in heaven.
May 11th
Chapter 8 of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
On the Beauty and Lineage of Mary
O Mary, illustrious Virgin, engendered from the fruitful race of patriarchs, nourished by the holy descendants of priests, O Mary, honored with the dignity of pontiffs, announced by the choir of prophets, heiress of the grandeur of kings, illustrious daughter of the house of David, supreme glory of the tribe of Juda. Sacred heroine of the valiant people of Israel, living symbol of a holy nation, miraculous child of blessed parents, you merit glory and praise, you merit tenderness and love.
Your name is proclaimed in the whole universe, O Mary! from the rising to the setting of the sun, among all nations....Everywhere, too, and every day your name is preached in churches and chapels, in cloisters, in fields, in deserts.
Its love is so great, its love is so gentle, that it can without ever tiring, chant, contemplate, meditate and fete your mysteries, mindful of the words of Wisdom.
Come then, O Mary, sweet Virgin whom I love! Come then,my hope and my consolation! Come, for when I am near you, when I hear your voice, it seems that I am near you, when I hear your voice, it seems that I already possess all good, it seems that I am sheltered from all evil,
Recalling your sweet clemency, I come to seek refuge under your aegis, O Mary, you who know how to give to the weak, strength, to the captive, freedom, be for me all merciful, be by your love a mother to me.
Thus I shall know through having experienced it how you console with charm, and how you defend with assurance, all those who are faithful in serving you.
Chapter 8 of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
On the Beauty and Lineage of Mary
O Mary, illustrious Virgin, engendered from the fruitful race of patriarchs, nourished by the holy descendants of priests, O Mary, honored with the dignity of pontiffs, announced by the choir of prophets, heiress of the grandeur of kings, illustrious daughter of the house of David, supreme glory of the tribe of Juda. Sacred heroine of the valiant people of Israel, living symbol of a holy nation, miraculous child of blessed parents, you merit glory and praise, you merit tenderness and love.
Your name is proclaimed in the whole universe, O Mary! from the rising to the setting of the sun, among all nations....Everywhere, too, and every day your name is preached in churches and chapels, in cloisters, in fields, in deserts.
Its love is so great, its love is so gentle, that it can without ever tiring, chant, contemplate, meditate and fete your mysteries, mindful of the words of Wisdom.
Come then, O Mary, sweet Virgin whom I love! Come then,my hope and my consolation! Come, for when I am near you, when I hear your voice, it seems that I am near you, when I hear your voice, it seems that I already possess all good, it seems that I am sheltered from all evil,
Recalling your sweet clemency, I come to seek refuge under your aegis, O Mary, you who know how to give to the weak, strength, to the captive, freedom, be for me all merciful, be by your love a mother to me.
Thus I shall know through having experienced it how you console with charm, and how you defend with assurance, all those who are faithful in serving you.
Friday, May 10, 2013
May 10th
Chapter Seven of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Greatness and Privileges of Mary
In order to succeed in knowing, at least in part, the greatness and dignity of the virgin Mary, note briefly the eminent graces with which God has clothed her, while exalting her above angels and saints in heaven and above all men on earth.
By testimony of the Holy Scripture Mary was from all time, and will be always, the holiest virgin among all virgins, the most beautiful woman among all women, the sweetest mother among all mothers, the purest daughter among all daughters, the gentlest mistress among all mistresses, the most illustrious queen among all queens.
In her are found again assembled, dwelling and shining with an unequalled brilliance, all virginal beauty and all virtuous charm, all divine thought and all the love of the heart, every virtuous work and every fruit of sanctity.
O Mary, Star that shines in the sky, Virgin, Queen of Heaven, Sovereign of the World, no woman can be compared with you, no matter with whatever virtues heaven may have adorned her, because you are unique in the midst of the elect.
O Miracle ineffable, O joy unhoped for! This Son of the Living God to save the universe becomes your Son, and you are His mother!
Thus you became our mediatrix, and the mediatrix of the entire world. O Mary, the most beautiful of all women, let the whole world glorify you, honor you, sing to you, and love you! May every creature repeat your praises in heaven and on earth, now and forever.
Chapter Seven of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Greatness and Privileges of Mary
In order to succeed in knowing, at least in part, the greatness and dignity of the virgin Mary, note briefly the eminent graces with which God has clothed her, while exalting her above angels and saints in heaven and above all men on earth.
By testimony of the Holy Scripture Mary was from all time, and will be always, the holiest virgin among all virgins, the most beautiful woman among all women, the sweetest mother among all mothers, the purest daughter among all daughters, the gentlest mistress among all mistresses, the most illustrious queen among all queens.
In her are found again assembled, dwelling and shining with an unequalled brilliance, all virginal beauty and all virtuous charm, all divine thought and all the love of the heart, every virtuous work and every fruit of sanctity.
O Mary, Star that shines in the sky, Virgin, Queen of Heaven, Sovereign of the World, no woman can be compared with you, no matter with whatever virtues heaven may have adorned her, because you are unique in the midst of the elect.
O Miracle ineffable, O joy unhoped for! This Son of the Living God to save the universe becomes your Son, and you are His mother!
Thus you became our mediatrix, and the mediatrix of the entire world. O Mary, the most beautiful of all women, let the whole world glorify you, honor you, sing to you, and love you! May every creature repeat your praises in heaven and on earth, now and forever.
Thursday, May 9, 2013
May 9th
Chapter Six of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Of the Power and Abilities of Mary
Mary tenderly sheds tears with the unhappy; she is compassionate with the sorrows of those who suffer; she comes to give help in the struggles of those who are tempted; she turns herself ever to those who pray to her. All those who go with confidence and devotion to seek refuge with her and call upon her name find in her abundance and consolation.
Thus, therefore, let every pious Christian hurry to seek refuge near Mary, if he wishes to escape from the shipwrecks of the world, and to arrive at the port of eternal salvation.
O Mary, gentle Mother, beloved Mother above all, you are the star on the horizon of the sea, the star which smiles on the lost mariner, the star which leads to the haven of peace.
Let it rise to you, O Mary, my simple prayer. May the flame of my desire arise toward you, my cherished Queen. Defend my cause at the tribunal of your Son, for no one is found innocent before Him.
Chapter Six of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Of the Power and Abilities of Mary
Mary tenderly sheds tears with the unhappy; she is compassionate with the sorrows of those who suffer; she comes to give help in the struggles of those who are tempted; she turns herself ever to those who pray to her. All those who go with confidence and devotion to seek refuge with her and call upon her name find in her abundance and consolation.
Thus, therefore, let every pious Christian hurry to seek refuge near Mary, if he wishes to escape from the shipwrecks of the world, and to arrive at the port of eternal salvation.
O Mary, gentle Mother, beloved Mother above all, you are the star on the horizon of the sea, the star which smiles on the lost mariner, the star which leads to the haven of peace.
Let it rise to you, O Mary, my simple prayer. May the flame of my desire arise toward you, my cherished Queen. Defend my cause at the tribunal of your Son, for no one is found innocent before Him.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
May 8th
Chapter Five of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Our Duties to Mary
It is often important, indeed, to know of a refuge in which one may hide oneself against storms, in the presence of tempests of tribulation. There is no spot, no place more secure, no port more tranquil than the bosom of Mary. So there is no runner more rapid to support us against the blows of the enemy, than an ardent prayer, rising from the plain to the well-armed stronghold of the Virgin Mary. This stronghold is the same one in which Jesus entered to be clothed therein with a body like unto an armor, so as to chase afar the prince of darkness.
Enter you, too, within that fortress so as to be sheltered from those who assail you. Remain under the mantle of the Virgin Mary; you will be protected by the arms of a mother. The prayer of Mary puts go flight the destructive rabble of evil enemies; her aid snatches us from imminent peril. Near her, he who wavers finds support, and he who is abandoned, help....Attach yourself to her, and do not leave her until she has granted you her blessing so as to lead you to heaven.
O Mary, O mistress filled with clemency, in the name of pure love and affection, I remain at your feet. Give to my heart, I beg you, an increase of confidence.
Fear pursues me and doubt gnaws at me; despair assails me in the midst of temptations: only one thing is still able to console me: It is that I have sought to be heard by you. O Mother, I entrust myself to your heart.
Chapter Five of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Our Duties to Mary
It is often important, indeed, to know of a refuge in which one may hide oneself against storms, in the presence of tempests of tribulation. There is no spot, no place more secure, no port more tranquil than the bosom of Mary. So there is no runner more rapid to support us against the blows of the enemy, than an ardent prayer, rising from the plain to the well-armed stronghold of the Virgin Mary. This stronghold is the same one in which Jesus entered to be clothed therein with a body like unto an armor, so as to chase afar the prince of darkness.
Enter you, too, within that fortress so as to be sheltered from those who assail you. Remain under the mantle of the Virgin Mary; you will be protected by the arms of a mother. The prayer of Mary puts go flight the destructive rabble of evil enemies; her aid snatches us from imminent peril. Near her, he who wavers finds support, and he who is abandoned, help....Attach yourself to her, and do not leave her until she has granted you her blessing so as to lead you to heaven.
O Mary, O mistress filled with clemency, in the name of pure love and affection, I remain at your feet. Give to my heart, I beg you, an increase of confidence.
Fear pursues me and doubt gnaws at me; despair assails me in the midst of temptations: only one thing is still able to console me: It is that I have sought to be heard by you. O Mother, I entrust myself to your heart.
May 7th
Chapter Four of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Grandeurs and Glories of Mary
O Mary, greater than the heavens, you have the world under your feet, and you are seated close to God, on the throne of honor which Jesus gave you. Your mercy which surpasses all mercy draws me to you, for you are ever the aid and consolation of those who suffer. I have need, O Mother, of being consoled and fortified. More than that, I have need of the grace of your Son because I know that without it I can accomplish nothing.
You are able, O my Mother, if you wish, to lift me up and help me with your powerful succor. You can comfort me with your abundant consolation. I feel myself engulfed by temptation, so I run to you, since I feel that near you I shall find help as well as pity.
It is with respect, with love and confidence that I come, O Mary, to offer you in my turn the salutation the angel offered you kneeling.
O Mother, more beloved than all mothers, O Mary, if sometimes I have forgotten you, I regret and weep for it today. But you, oh! do not forget me, you who alone brought forth mercy by giving birth to Jesus.
Kneeling, I salute you, I bow before you, I join my hands and prostrate myself, so that you may listen with greater love to my prayer. I say before you, and I wish ever to repeat it: "Hail Mary, full of grace the Lord is with you; you are blessed among all women, and Jesus, the fruit of your womb, is blessed."
Chapter Four of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Grandeurs and Glories of Mary
O Mary, greater than the heavens, you have the world under your feet, and you are seated close to God, on the throne of honor which Jesus gave you. Your mercy which surpasses all mercy draws me to you, for you are ever the aid and consolation of those who suffer. I have need, O Mother, of being consoled and fortified. More than that, I have need of the grace of your Son because I know that without it I can accomplish nothing.
You are able, O my Mother, if you wish, to lift me up and help me with your powerful succor. You can comfort me with your abundant consolation. I feel myself engulfed by temptation, so I run to you, since I feel that near you I shall find help as well as pity.
It is with respect, with love and confidence that I come, O Mary, to offer you in my turn the salutation the angel offered you kneeling.
O Mother, more beloved than all mothers, O Mary, if sometimes I have forgotten you, I regret and weep for it today. But you, oh! do not forget me, you who alone brought forth mercy by giving birth to Jesus.
Kneeling, I salute you, I bow before you, I join my hands and prostrate myself, so that you may listen with greater love to my prayer. I say before you, and I wish ever to repeat it: "Hail Mary, full of grace the Lord is with you; you are blessed among all women, and Jesus, the fruit of your womb, is blessed."
Monday, May 6, 2013
May 6th
Chapter Three of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Virtues and Tasks of a Good Servant of Mary
Learn to call upon Jesus in everything, and you will be aided both in perils of the soul and of the body. Have Jesus always in your heart, in happiness, and you will never be overcome by human distress. Say often the Hail Mary: you will find in it joy and peace: no prayer is more beautiful than the Our Father; none is sweeter and gentler than the Hail Mary.
He who knows how to nourish his soul with prayer, he who knows how to pray with the sacred texts, will never know aridity in devotion. Strive thus constantly to honor the names of Jesus and Mary in your heart and with your lips.
Wherever you may go, or wherever you may be, implore Jesus and call upon Mary Have as a rule of life and as a help in time of need this pious invocation: Guide, O my Lord, always guide my way in Your presence. He who in his heart bears Jesus and Mary always works well, always conducts himself well.
O Mary, O Mother full of mercy, receive close to you, your servant wandering without consolation, in the midst of his trials. Look, O my Queen, look at my affliction and open to me your heart full of consolation. Here I am praying and saying in my distress, that I shall not cease nor leave you until you have had pity on me.
I know, O Mother, your incomparable sweetness, I know the maternal flame of your noble heart, I know the fullness of love that fills it, and that I may have full hope in you. Also, I take refuge with you, O my Mother, so that in joy as in sorrow, I may receive your watchful succor and listen to your maternal consolation.
Chapter Three of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Virtues and Tasks of a Good Servant of Mary
Learn to call upon Jesus in everything, and you will be aided both in perils of the soul and of the body. Have Jesus always in your heart, in happiness, and you will never be overcome by human distress. Say often the Hail Mary: you will find in it joy and peace: no prayer is more beautiful than the Our Father; none is sweeter and gentler than the Hail Mary.
He who knows how to nourish his soul with prayer, he who knows how to pray with the sacred texts, will never know aridity in devotion. Strive thus constantly to honor the names of Jesus and Mary in your heart and with your lips.
Wherever you may go, or wherever you may be, implore Jesus and call upon Mary Have as a rule of life and as a help in time of need this pious invocation: Guide, O my Lord, always guide my way in Your presence. He who in his heart bears Jesus and Mary always works well, always conducts himself well.
O Mary, O Mother full of mercy, receive close to you, your servant wandering without consolation, in the midst of his trials. Look, O my Queen, look at my affliction and open to me your heart full of consolation. Here I am praying and saying in my distress, that I shall not cease nor leave you until you have had pity on me.
I know, O Mother, your incomparable sweetness, I know the maternal flame of your noble heart, I know the fullness of love that fills it, and that I may have full hope in you. Also, I take refuge with you, O my Mother, so that in joy as in sorrow, I may receive your watchful succor and listen to your maternal consolation.
Sunday, May 5, 2013
May 5th
Chapter Two of The Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Duties Toward Mary
Choose before all things, Mary for mother, for advocate, and for model. Greet her every day with the Angelic Salutation...
If you know how to think and act in this way, you will advance rapidly in perfection. Mary will protect you with all her power, and Jesus will hear you in His gentle mercy. What we do is very little. It is nothing. Nevertheless, if we do it with Mary, we shall rise little by little to God our Father. We shall always find near Him consolation and joy.
Happy is he who knows how to keep always near him Jesus and Mary as hosts of his table, consolers in his troubles, help in his danger, counsel in his doubt, protectors at his death. Happy is he who considering himself in this world as a wayfarer, and as a stranger, keeps Jesus for a companion and Mary for a hostess.
O Mother, I come to you filled with hope. I come to you recalling the exultant joy which the Archangel Gabriel once brought to you when, falling on his knees before you, he saluted your virginity, saying respectfully: Hail, Mary, the Lord is with thee.
This greeting I say to you again, O Mother, with the heart, and, if I could, with the voice of all the faithful, so that thus all creatures may sing with me from the depth of their souls and their being: Ave Maria, full of grace, the Lord is with thee, thou art blessed, O Mother, among all women, and Jesus the fruit of thy womb, is blessed on earth and in heaven, today and always.
Chapter Two of The Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Duties Toward Mary
Choose before all things, Mary for mother, for advocate, and for model. Greet her every day with the Angelic Salutation...
If you know how to think and act in this way, you will advance rapidly in perfection. Mary will protect you with all her power, and Jesus will hear you in His gentle mercy. What we do is very little. It is nothing. Nevertheless, if we do it with Mary, we shall rise little by little to God our Father. We shall always find near Him consolation and joy.
Happy is he who knows how to keep always near him Jesus and Mary as hosts of his table, consolers in his troubles, help in his danger, counsel in his doubt, protectors at his death. Happy is he who considering himself in this world as a wayfarer, and as a stranger, keeps Jesus for a companion and Mary for a hostess.
O Mother, I come to you filled with hope. I come to you recalling the exultant joy which the Archangel Gabriel once brought to you when, falling on his knees before you, he saluted your virginity, saying respectfully: Hail, Mary, the Lord is with thee.
This greeting I say to you again, O Mother, with the heart, and, if I could, with the voice of all the faithful, so that thus all creatures may sing with me from the depth of their souls and their being: Ave Maria, full of grace, the Lord is with thee, thou art blessed, O Mother, among all women, and Jesus the fruit of thy womb, is blessed on earth and in heaven, today and always.
May 4th The Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Chapter One
The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Many young girls, says the author of Wisdom, have amassed riches, but you, O Mary, you surpass them all greatly. Children, be faithful imitators of Jesus, and perfect imitators of Mary. It matters a great deal, it matters for your salvation, for the honor of Jesus and the glory of Mary, that you always be devout in your prayers, sober in your words, discreet in your looks...
Be simple, like the simple children of god, without deception, without envy, without criticism, without murmuring, and without any suspicion. Support all adverse things with charity, with great patience and great humility...To one who knows how to offer his life to the divine Trinity, all that is bitter here on earth appears sweet, and all that seems heavy appears very light...
O Mary, O sweet Mother of my Jesus, I beg you, deign to open to your poor servant both your maternal compassion and your love, laden with sweetness. Pour into my heart one drop of your tenderness so that I may love you with a pure heart, you, O Mother, the sweetest of all mothers, so that I may imitate you and Jesus.
Chapter One
The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Many young girls, says the author of Wisdom, have amassed riches, but you, O Mary, you surpass them all greatly. Children, be faithful imitators of Jesus, and perfect imitators of Mary. It matters a great deal, it matters for your salvation, for the honor of Jesus and the glory of Mary, that you always be devout in your prayers, sober in your words, discreet in your looks...
Be simple, like the simple children of god, without deception, without envy, without criticism, without murmuring, and without any suspicion. Support all adverse things with charity, with great patience and great humility...To one who knows how to offer his life to the divine Trinity, all that is bitter here on earth appears sweet, and all that seems heavy appears very light...
O Mary, O sweet Mother of my Jesus, I beg you, deign to open to your poor servant both your maternal compassion and your love, laden with sweetness. Pour into my heart one drop of your tenderness so that I may love you with a pure heart, you, O Mother, the sweetest of all mothers, so that I may imitate you and Jesus.
Friday, May 3, 2013
May 3rd
Chapter Seven of Praying to God as a Friend
Praying with Confidence in God
Go to God with the greatest possible confidence. It is a great mistake to be afraid of one who is so loving and longs for your love. Recall how mercifully God tries to lead you out of a sinful life, and away from attachments to things that are evil, so that you can be united with God.
When you are troubled by any sort of doubt, whether it be caused by yourself or by others, act as faithful friends do and speak to God about these difficulties. Consider that God loves you more than you can possibly love in return. What do you fear? One who loves God should never be afraid.
It pleases God when you forget about yourself and speak about others, especially those who are troubled or worried, those who are suffering, those who yearn for and those who have drifted away from God's grace. Know that you can express your trust in God not only by bringing your own personal needs but also by mentioning those of others.
Reanimate your confidence by thinking of the gift which God has given in the person of Jesus Christ.
O God, You are so lovable and worthy of infinite love. How can You bear that so many people in this world whom You have showered with gifts refuse to know and love You? They even offend and despise You.
Most loving God, may Your name be adored and loved by all people throughout the world. I beg You, do not let me leave You without Your granting some grace for those on whose behalf I am praying.
O God of life, I love You more than myself. You alone are enough for me. I consecrate to You all my love. Since You have drawn me to that love, leave all, I renounce all, and I bind myself to You.
Mary, grant that with my last breath I may pronounce your name and the name of your Son, Jesus.
Chapter Seven of Praying to God as a Friend
Praying with Confidence in God
Go to God with the greatest possible confidence. It is a great mistake to be afraid of one who is so loving and longs for your love. Recall how mercifully God tries to lead you out of a sinful life, and away from attachments to things that are evil, so that you can be united with God.
When you are troubled by any sort of doubt, whether it be caused by yourself or by others, act as faithful friends do and speak to God about these difficulties. Consider that God loves you more than you can possibly love in return. What do you fear? One who loves God should never be afraid.
It pleases God when you forget about yourself and speak about others, especially those who are troubled or worried, those who are suffering, those who yearn for and those who have drifted away from God's grace. Know that you can express your trust in God not only by bringing your own personal needs but also by mentioning those of others.
Reanimate your confidence by thinking of the gift which God has given in the person of Jesus Christ.
O God, You are so lovable and worthy of infinite love. How can You bear that so many people in this world whom You have showered with gifts refuse to know and love You? They even offend and despise You.
Most loving God, may Your name be adored and loved by all people throughout the world. I beg You, do not let me leave You without Your granting some grace for those on whose behalf I am praying.
O God of life, I love You more than myself. You alone are enough for me. I consecrate to You all my love. Since You have drawn me to that love, leave all, I renounce all, and I bind myself to You.
Mary, grant that with my last breath I may pronounce your name and the name of your Son, Jesus.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
May 2nd
Chapter Six of Praying to God as a Friend
Seeking the Consolation of God
In times of suffering know that God will console you or at least give you strength to be patient. God will not be displeased if you seek consolation from your friends. However, God does wish to be the deepest source of your consolation. Know that this suffering will serve to strengthen you, to increase your humility, and to renew your confidence in God. The more weary and discouraged you may feel, the more confidently you need to cry out: "The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom should I fear?"
Prayers such as these will restore peace to heart, mind, and spirit, for none are lost who place their hope in God. Do not be afraid that you will displease God if at times you quietly complain that you feel forsaken. Simply say: "O God, You know that I love You and long for nothing else but Your love. Take pity on me and help me. Do not forsake me."
If your anguish does not diminish but continues to trouble you, then unite your prayer to Jesus Christ, dying in desolation on the cross, and cry out with Him for mercy: "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?"
O God of love, You are and shall be forever the only delight of my heart and the sole object of my affections. Since Jesus said, "Ask and you shall receive," I do not hesitate to say, "Give me Your love and Your grace." Grant that I may love You and be loved by You. I want nothing else.
Mary, teach me to love God as you do.
Chapter Six of Praying to God as a Friend
Seeking the Consolation of God
In times of suffering know that God will console you or at least give you strength to be patient. God will not be displeased if you seek consolation from your friends. However, God does wish to be the deepest source of your consolation. Know that this suffering will serve to strengthen you, to increase your humility, and to renew your confidence in God. The more weary and discouraged you may feel, the more confidently you need to cry out: "The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom should I fear?"
Prayers such as these will restore peace to heart, mind, and spirit, for none are lost who place their hope in God. Do not be afraid that you will displease God if at times you quietly complain that you feel forsaken. Simply say: "O God, You know that I love You and long for nothing else but Your love. Take pity on me and help me. Do not forsake me."
If your anguish does not diminish but continues to trouble you, then unite your prayer to Jesus Christ, dying in desolation on the cross, and cry out with Him for mercy: "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?"
O God of love, You are and shall be forever the only delight of my heart and the sole object of my affections. Since Jesus said, "Ask and you shall receive," I do not hesitate to say, "Give me Your love and Your grace." Grant that I may love You and be loved by You. I want nothing else.
Mary, teach me to love God as you do.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
May 1st
Chapter Five
Prayers for God's Forgiveness
Whenever you commit a fault, cast yourself at once at the feet of your loving God and ask pardon. Consider that God is so inclined to forgive sinners that God weeps over their loss. God welcomes back anyone who has gone astray. O, would that sinners knew with what tenderness God waits to welcome them and to grant them pardon. If only they would realize that God is calling to them: "You who have sinned, how I long to embrace you and to press you to my heart."
God goes so far as to speak through the prophet and say: "Though your sins be like scarlet, they may become white as snow"....we know that God stands behind all promises and loves us.
When a person repents God declares, "I will forgive all your sins." When you fall, turn at once to God, make an act of love, confidently hope for pardon and say: "One whom you love is sick. Heal me for I have sinned against you. I know that you do not wish me to lose heart, that you still wish me well. I am sorry, my God, help me not to sin again. Forgive me. Give me strength to be faithful in the future."
If you remain discouraged and troubled after you fall, your confidence in God will diminish. You will not be able to converse with God, and your desire to love God will become cold....
On the other hand, if you turn to God at once to ask pardon and promise to do better, your very falling will help you to grow in God's love. At once, turn to God after you have been unfaithful, Even though it be the hundredth time in a day, and you will find peace again....
I love you, Jesus, my Love, above all things. I repent with my whole heart of having offended you. Never permit me to separate myself from you again. Grant that I may love you always and then do with me what you will.
O Lord, put an end to my ingratitude. Grant that this day may be the day of my thorough conversion, so that I may begin to love you and may never cease loving you. Help me to surrender all my desires in order that I may live only for you.
Mary, you have always perfectly followed the will of God. Help me by your prayers to do God's will for the rest of my life.
Chapter Five
Prayers for God's Forgiveness
Whenever you commit a fault, cast yourself at once at the feet of your loving God and ask pardon. Consider that God is so inclined to forgive sinners that God weeps over their loss. God welcomes back anyone who has gone astray. O, would that sinners knew with what tenderness God waits to welcome them and to grant them pardon. If only they would realize that God is calling to them: "You who have sinned, how I long to embrace you and to press you to my heart."
God goes so far as to speak through the prophet and say: "Though your sins be like scarlet, they may become white as snow"....we know that God stands behind all promises and loves us.
When a person repents God declares, "I will forgive all your sins." When you fall, turn at once to God, make an act of love, confidently hope for pardon and say: "One whom you love is sick. Heal me for I have sinned against you. I know that you do not wish me to lose heart, that you still wish me well. I am sorry, my God, help me not to sin again. Forgive me. Give me strength to be faithful in the future."
If you remain discouraged and troubled after you fall, your confidence in God will diminish. You will not be able to converse with God, and your desire to love God will become cold....
On the other hand, if you turn to God at once to ask pardon and promise to do better, your very falling will help you to grow in God's love. At once, turn to God after you have been unfaithful, Even though it be the hundredth time in a day, and you will find peace again....
I love you, Jesus, my Love, above all things. I repent with my whole heart of having offended you. Never permit me to separate myself from you again. Grant that I may love you always and then do with me what you will.
O Lord, put an end to my ingratitude. Grant that this day may be the day of my thorough conversion, so that I may begin to love you and may never cease loving you. Help me to surrender all my desires in order that I may live only for you.
Mary, you have always perfectly followed the will of God. Help me by your prayers to do God's will for the rest of my life.
April 30th
Chapter Four
Praying in the Presence of God
God is present to you at all times and does not go away from your bedside when you rest, but continues to think of you always. If you awake during the night, God may speak to you through inspiration. Sometimes even in your sleep God's voice sounds in your ears. Again in the morning, God is there waiting to hear more acts of love and confidence from you. God treasures your waking thoughts and all the sufferings or joys that you offer during the day. Know that God loves you and wishes to be loved by you. Try to remember God's presence throughout the day. Make known all your feelings, those of joy or sadness, hope or fear. Say whatever comes to your mind. Speak about yourself and others as you would speak to an intimate friend.
In time of temptation, sickness, or any other trouble, turn to God who will reach out to you and hold your hand. Know that God loves you and wishes to be loved by you.
When you receive some pleasant news, at once tell God of your joy. Do not be like unfaithful and ungrateful people who turn to God only in adversity. Be ready to acknowledge that every good thing comes from God and say: "My God, I praise and thank you. I bless you for all the graces given to me. Because of my offences I know that I do not deserve your love. Help me, my God, to be mindful of your goodness, both past and present, so that I may render you glory and praise forever."
Those who have very dear friends sometimes feel happier over their friends' good than their own. Take comfort, then, in the thought of your God's infinite goodness and happiness.
Jesus, my Redeemer, I feel within me a great desire to love you. This is a gift of your grace,and I know that it comes from you. Give me the strength necessary to put your grace into action and help me, from this day forward, to say to you sincerely and repeat to you always, "My God, I love you, I love you, I love you. You desire my love; I also desire yours. Let us love each other from now on and forever. You will never leave me; I will never leave you. You will always love me; I will always love you."
O Mary see how I run to you to confide in you. You pray for so many others; pray for me, too. Place me under your protection and I shall not fear anything that can happen. With this hope I shall live in peace; and in it I wish to die.
Chapter Four
Praying in the Presence of God
God is present to you at all times and does not go away from your bedside when you rest, but continues to think of you always. If you awake during the night, God may speak to you through inspiration. Sometimes even in your sleep God's voice sounds in your ears. Again in the morning, God is there waiting to hear more acts of love and confidence from you. God treasures your waking thoughts and all the sufferings or joys that you offer during the day. Know that God loves you and wishes to be loved by you. Try to remember God's presence throughout the day. Make known all your feelings, those of joy or sadness, hope or fear. Say whatever comes to your mind. Speak about yourself and others as you would speak to an intimate friend.
In time of temptation, sickness, or any other trouble, turn to God who will reach out to you and hold your hand. Know that God loves you and wishes to be loved by you.
When you receive some pleasant news, at once tell God of your joy. Do not be like unfaithful and ungrateful people who turn to God only in adversity. Be ready to acknowledge that every good thing comes from God and say: "My God, I praise and thank you. I bless you for all the graces given to me. Because of my offences I know that I do not deserve your love. Help me, my God, to be mindful of your goodness, both past and present, so that I may render you glory and praise forever."
Those who have very dear friends sometimes feel happier over their friends' good than their own. Take comfort, then, in the thought of your God's infinite goodness and happiness.
Jesus, my Redeemer, I feel within me a great desire to love you. This is a gift of your grace,and I know that it comes from you. Give me the strength necessary to put your grace into action and help me, from this day forward, to say to you sincerely and repeat to you always, "My God, I love you, I love you, I love you. You desire my love; I also desire yours. Let us love each other from now on and forever. You will never leave me; I will never leave you. You will always love me; I will always love you."
O Mary see how I run to you to confide in you. You pray for so many others; pray for me, too. Place me under your protection and I shall not fear anything that can happen. With this hope I shall live in peace; and in it I wish to die.