Pondering Tidbits of Truth - September 25, 2014



Pondering Tidbits of Truth is my simple and inadequate way of providing nuggets of spiritual wisdom for you to chew on from time to time.



St. Bernard

"The whole of the spiritual life consists of these two elements. When we think of ourselves, we are perturbed and filled with a salutary sadness. And when we think of the Lord, we are revived to find consolation in the joy of the Holy Spirit. From the first we derive fear and humility, from the second hope and love."

(Sermon 5)


St. Ambrose

“Friendship requires us to help our friends. 'If you dis­cover some defect in your friend, correct him privately Corrections do a lot of good and are more valuable than a dumb friendship, which stands silently by, watching the friend drown. Friendship has to be persevering: We shouldn't change our friends the way children do, who allow themselves to be tossed about by the fickle motions of sentimentality. I will not be ashamed to protect a friend. Don't abandon him in his hour of need, don't forget him, Don't deny him your affection, because friendship is the mainstay of life. Let us carry one another's burdens, as the Apostle tells us. If a man's prosperity benefits all his friends, why shouldn't he count on their help in moments of adver­sity? Let us help our friend with our counsels, let us unite our efforts to his, let us share his afflictions.

And when the occasion arises, let us put up with great sacrifices out of loyalty to our friend. We may perhaps have to face antagonisms to defend the cause of an innocent friend, and be prepared to receive insults when we try to reply and rebut those who attack and accuse him ... In adversity true friendship is tested, because the prosperity everybody appears fruitful.”

(From On the Duties of Ministers)




St. Josemaria Escriva

"Don't expect people's applause for your work. What is more, sometimes you mustn't even expect other people and institutions, who like you are working for Christ, to understand you. Seek only the glory of God and while loving everyone, don't worry if there are some who do not comprehend what it is you are doing."

(The Forge)

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