the "little way"
We "have sinned in the Lord's sight and disobeyed Him." —Baruch 1:17-18
St. Therese is known for the "little way" — the way of loving obedience to God in the details of life. What changes the world is not so much the supposedly "big things" but the love by which we do the countless little things. Five loaves and two fish given in total love feed many more people than would thousands of loaves and fish that have been given with mixed motives (see Jn 6:9ff).
The "little way" is probably one of the most emphasized messages from God in this century. For example, the Lord has exalted simple doorkeepers like Fr. Solanus Casey and Brother André Bessette to show that He does as many miracles in the "Nazareths" of the world as in the public ministry of the "Jerusalems." If we have the faith to believe in the "little way" and the love to live it, we will see God's glory.
Therefore, let us repent of daily disobediences in the details of life. "We have been disobedient to the Lord, our God, and only too ready to disregard His voice" (Bar 1:19). "Each one of us went off after the devices of our own wicked hearts, served other gods, and did evil in the sight of the Lord, our God" (Bar 1:22). Let us pray: "Help us, O God our Savior, because of the glory of Your name; deliver us and pardon our sins for Your name's sake" (Ps 79:9). Repent! Listen to God! Do the little things! Change the world by love!
Prayer: Father, may I love You deeply and faithfully, especially when no one can see me.
Promise: "He who hears you, hears Me. He who rejects you, rejects Me. And he who rejects Me, rejects Him Who sent Me." —Lk 10:16
Praise: As a girl, St. Therese prayed fervently for a convicted murderer to repent and receive salvation before his execution. As he was placed in the guillotine, he suddenly turned to a nearby priest and asked to kiss a crucifix in sorrow for his sins.
Reference: (For related teaching, order our leaflets, Obedience School, and Who Cares?)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Ralph J. Lawrence, April 10, 1999
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 16, 1999