Now I wonder whether I have sufficiently realized that during all this time God has been trying to find me, to know me, and to love me. The question is not ‘How am I to find God?’ but ‘How am I to let myself be found by him?’ The question is not ‘How am I to love God?’ but ‘How am I to let myself be loved by God?’
–Henri Nouwen (1932–1996)
Jesus slept in my boat, as was His wont. But how rarely will souls allow Him to sleep in peace. Wearied with making continual advances, our good Master readily avails Himself of the repose I offer Him, and in all probability will sleep on till my great and everlasting retreat; this, however, rather rejoices than grieves me.
–Saint Therese of Lisieux (1873-1897)
When the grace of God comes to us we can do all things, but when it leaves us, we become poor and weak, abandoned, as it were, to affliction. Yet, in this condition we should not become dejected or despair. On the contrary, we should calmly await the will of God and bear whatever befalls us in praise of Jesus Christ; for after winter comes the summer, after night comes the day, and after the storm, a great calm.
–Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471)
He who desires to become a spiritual man must not be ever taking note of others, and above all of their sins, lest he fall into wrath and bitterness, and a judging spirit towards his neighbors.
–Johannes Tauler (c. 1300-1361)
It is no advantage to be near the light if the eyes are closed.
–Saint Augustine (354-430)
As Christians, our task is to make daily progress toward God. Our pilgrimage on earth is a school in which God is the only teacher, and it demands good students, not ones who play truant. In this school we learn something every day. We learn something from commandments, something from examples, and something from sacraments. These things are remedies for our wounds and materials for study.
–Saint Augustine (354-430)
