Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. Romans 15:2
“I saw how imperfect was the love I bore my sisters in religion. I understood that I did not love them as our Lord loves them. I know now that true charity consists in bearing all our neighbours’ defects—not being surprised at their weakness, but edified at their smallest virtues. Above all, I know that charity must not remain shut up in the heart.”
Thérèse de Lisieux (1873-1897) in Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of Saint Thérèse de Lisieux (Astern Press, 2015)
We are making our way from the saints of old to the present. Today, Thérèse de Lisieux reminds us to love others as our Lord loves them. That’s true charity!
When our lives reflect true charity all is peaceful and beautiful, just like the lake (pictured above) behind the home of Raymond Suen, who graciously hosted the board meetings I attended in Seattle this past weekend.
Lord, teach us to love others as you love us. May our generosity in extending your kindness not be shut up in our hearts but exhibited in every aspect of our lives for your glory. Amen.