Transitus of St. Benedict
St. Therese of Lisieux kept locks of her hair in the hope she would become a saint. That would leave relics behind for devotion for others. This act seems bizarre to us. Really, it is good hope for a Catholic. She had the right kind of ambition. In business, companies will often look for people with the right kind of ambition. This kind of person is humble and wants the company or group to succeed. They are not out for their own ego or glory. This person practices personal humility and strong will for others’ benefit. I believe this is a necessary part of Christian life. The “secret sauce” of sanctity is given its proper taste when our ambition is centered on this. Will the good of the other. This, as Aquinas wrote, is true Christian charity. No, you do not need forsake yourself for others benefit. You will find more grace when you seek to love others as yourself. This was the ambition of Therese, and she inspired countless people to live as Christ.
Reflect: How have the qualities of humility and goodwill influenced your life? Who have you known that embodied these qualities?
Reflection by Br. Matthew Marie, OSB
Posted in Lenten Resources