In the first reading today, we are reminded that through him we have received the grace of apostleship. The Church, in her wisdom, invites us to reflect on those who have lived the grace of discipleship.

During October, the Church commemorates Saint Therese, the Little Flower. The most impactful spiritual book that I have read and reread has been The Story of a Soul, the autobiography of Saint Therese. With it, I realized that, as small and insignificant as we are, we have but to raise our arms to heaven, like little children, and Christ himself will lift us up to himself.

Christ fills what is empty, and when He fills us up, we become holy fire. We know that Christ suffered for the love he has for each of us. How much do you love me, Lord? I ask. I only need to gaze at the cross. A commitment to love is not easy. Love in this world is sacrifice. So, lift your arms up to Jesus with complete trust.

From her book, I recalled that Saint Therese asked Jesus who she was to him. I did the same and heard a voice answer, “You are mine.” So, lift your arms in surrender. Remember that Christ waits for us in a cold tabernacle and in a cold chalice. Invite him into your heart filled with the warmth of gratitude and love. Saint Therese and Saint Peter Julian Eymard had similar prayer practices. Therese’s path, the Little Way, urged us to offer every act, however small, to Christ in the Eucharist. Saint Peter Julian Eymard believed that we needed a passionate love for Christ in adoration. A loving encounter with Christ was at the core of both Saint Therese and Saint Peter Julian’s spirituality.

Let Us Pray:

Saint Peter Julian and Saint Therese, please show us the path of love to God’s heart. Embed in us your gifts of humility, trust, and surrender, for this we pray. Amen.