the "little way"
We "have sinned in the Lord's sight and disobeyed Him." —Baruch 1:17-18
St. Therese, whose memorial is on October 1st, 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 recent decades. For example, the Lord has exalted simple doorkeepers like Fr. Solanus Casey and St. 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: Bl. Marie-Rose dedicated her life to teaching the poorest and most abandoned children about Jesus. Above all, she was "mindful of the poor" (Gal 2:10).
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 12, 2017
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