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.