The eyes of the Lord rest on those who fear Him. He protects them by his mighty power, enlightens them, preserves them during temptation, saves them from evil, consoles them and gives them strength, life and blessing.
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You are God, who cancels all evil. You are God, treasure of those who desire you. You are God, who talks with the simple ones. You are God, who forgives those who forgive. You are God, who is honoured only by the humble. You are God, who provides to those who are generous. You are God, who judges those who judge others. You are God, friend of the little ones. You are God, the sole object of our hearts. You are God, who is found by those who seek you. You are God, light of all people. You are God, who welcomes every contrite heart. You are God, who speaks to the silent. You are God, who hates evil. You are God, who comforts those who mourn. You are God, who blesses the faithful. You are God, who delights in being with us your children. You are God, who receives those who turn to you. You are God, inestimable treasure of those who find you. You are God, who forgives without delay. You are God, peace and rest of the humble. You are God, the object of our faith. You are God, our true hope. You are God, the cause of our joy. You are a generous God. You are God, who desires the salvation of all people. You are God, who does not turn your back on those who ask from you in truth. You are God, and the one who possesses you possesses everything. You are God, who yearns for the entire heart of everyone. You are God, who works in silence. Conclusion: Lord God, you who created and saved us, and sustain us: we are your servants; we chose you as. our Lord. We will not forsake you with anyone or anything for you are unrivaled, but we ask for your grace, because without you we can do nothing. Amen.
Read MoreTo the First Person of the Trinity: I sinned, Lord … the thought of your divine juástice filled me with anguish … the punishment by your authority … Your own Son killed on the cross … and death always so near … they put pressure on me to mourn for my offences … faced as I am with your fierce rage. Lord have mercy - Lord have mercy - Lord have mercy To the Second Person of the Trinity: I sinned, Lord... but love and mercy... which made of you a servant and which you addressed to our fallen parents infuse me with hope of forgiveness for my transgressons. Chirst have mercy - Chirst have mercy - Chirst have mercy To the Third Person of the Trinity: I sinned, Lord, and I am heart-broken in considering your blessings which I rejected … I deserve all adversity … death and hell for a thousand times for my ingratitude … but I can’t bear to be deprived of your sweetness. Lord have mercy - Lord have mercy - Lord have mercy
Read More(The Gymnasium For The Spiritual Life)
This work consists of a collection of instructions taken from various eminent writers on the spiritual life. It is meant to be a course to help the reader attain the attitude of despising all that is worldly while appreciating all spiritual values. Throughout the book Christ, as the teacher, is imagined to be the speaker instructing the reader. However, the truth and righteousness of each instruction must be properly weighed and evaluated by the reader. The ones who can pronounce judgment on this book are only those who have carefully read and meditated on it, who have looked therein for inspiration, for its practice, and for that peace of mind which is meant to be communicated to those who have a good disposition, namely, to those who are prepared to listen. The work is divided into sessions on various topics called “Instructions”.• In order that the reader may receive the full spiritual profit from its reflection and study, it is suggested that no more than one Intrusction a day be read, till the whole course of assigned sessions is covered. This book is mainly written for those who would like to deepend their relation with Jesus Christ and continue to cultivate their faith. The reader is asked to invoke the Blessed Trinity before each Instruction by making the sign of the cross and say this prayer: God the Father, receive the Divine Wounds of your beloved Son and our brother, Jesus Christ. I offer them to you asking for your Holy Spirit. Amen. This is The Gymnasium For The Spiritual Life, Instruction 21: The person who truly loves God. My child, today I propose this subject for your thoughtful consideration: Spiritual perfection consists in love, and in love there is no fear. In order that you can in some way discover what stage you have reached in spiritu¿al life, I put before you a model of the person who truly loves God. The persons who truly loves God unreservedly - and consequently are living a life of perfection - possesses three hearts in one: (i) A heart of fire for God (consuming love for God), which makes them choose to do God’s will completely and in everything rather than their own will, even at the cost of his own life. Such a person resigns himself to God’s will and, finding pleasure only in glorifying his name, they encourage others to do the same. (ii) A heart of flesh for others (gentle love for others) with which they sincerely and unselfishly shows mercy towards everybody, and treat others as they want others to treat them. Moreover, they are not only keen not to do to others what they do not want others to do to them, but also to see that this is not done. They rejoice with those who rejoice, and are sad with those in sorrow (cf. Rm 12, 15). (iii) A heart of stone for themselÏf (a disciplined love for oneself) with which they chastise their evil inclinations knowing that, the more one suffers and practises self-denial during this life, the greater will be their glory in the hereafter. Spiritual perfection is seated in love, and love is the fulfilment of the law: “You must love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second resembles it: You must love your neighbour as yourself” (Mt 22, 37-39). He who love bind themself to the object of their love and becomes one. Therefore, when you love God, who is love, God abides in you and you in God.
Read MoreThe Art of Forming Young Disciples by Everett Fritz is a comprehensive guide for individuals engaged in the valuable ministry of nurturing the faith of young people. It delves into the intricate dynamics of youth ministry, offering both theoretical insights and practical strategies for effective engagement. One of the central themes of the book is the significance of building genuine relationships with young people. Fritz emphasizes the power of authentic connections in fostering meaningful discipleship. He advocates for moving beyond superficial interactions and investing in deep, personal relationships that serve as the foundation for spiritual growth. Moreover, Fritz introduces the concept of intentional discipleship, outlining a structured approach to mentoring and forming young disciples. This involves not only imparting knowledge but also walking alongside young people as they navigate their faith journey, providing guidance and support along the way. A key aspect of the book is its recognition of the challenges posed by contemporary culture. Fritz explores how societal norms and pressures can impact the spiritual development of young people and offers insights into effectively engaging with them in a culturally relevant manner. He suggests ways to connect with young people on their level, addressing their questions, concerns, and interests in ways that resonate with their experiences. Furthermore, The Art of Forming Young Disciples provides practical strategies for implementing successful youth ministry initiatives. Fritz offers concrete examples and actionable advice that can be adapted to various contexts, whether in a church setting, school, or community organization. From organizing engaging activities to facilitating meaningful discussions, the book equips readers with the tools they need to make a positive impact on the lives of young people. Underpinning the practical guidance is a strong theological foundation. Fritz emphasizes the importance of grounding youth ministry in sound theological principles, ensuring that discipleship efforts are not only relevant but also deeply rooted in faith. He highlights the value of theological teaching in shaping the spiritual formation of young disciples and provides guidance on how to integrate theological concepts into youth ministry practices. Overall, The Art of Forming Young Disciples is a valuable resource for priests, youth leaders, parents, and anyone passionate about nurturing the faith of young people. It offers a holistic approach to youth ministry, combining relational depth, intentional discipleship, cultural relevance, practical strategies, and theological richness. Through its insights and guidance, the book empowers readers to effectively engage with young people and guide them on their journey of faith.
Read MoreHallelujah! Jesus is alive! Have you met the living Jesus in person? St George Preca, in The Sanctuary of the Spirit of Christ, put in writing how he portrayed Jesus Christ. This helps us visualize the person of Jesus, the second divine person of the Holy Trinity, whom we long to encounter face to face in our life and beyond! Christ was a tall man with a youthful face with a pale dark complexion. He was neither thin nor fat. He had a high forehead, black eyes ever cast downwards. He was a handsome man, as befits the Son of God made man, without any physical defect. Like all Nazarenes, He wore his hair long of a chestnut colour, as were his beard and moustache. He walked slowly and in a dignified manner, without any hurry. His look was serious and grave, and his countrymen never saw Him laugh though they did see Him weep. His voice was steady and clear, and it could be either gentle or angry depending on the circumstance. When sitting his position inspired modesty and majesty. He loved silence. His words were full of learning, consolation, warnings and corrections. He threatened hypocrites. He knew reading and writing though nobody ever taught Him. His miracles and wisdom, and his calm and gentle temperament drew the crowds towards him. He would reject or repulse no one who approached Him. He showed affection to everybody, but in his choice of friends, He preferred the lowly, the little ones and the ignorant. No gift, praise, or any other thing could bribe his principles of justice and truth. He faced every persecution with courage. He was honest and upright in everything, and never feared the powerful. He disciplined his companions sometimes gently and sometimes strongly. Neither praise nor humiliations effected Him. He showed delight when people surrounded him to listen to his teachings. He never taught anything without strengthening his words with example. His wisdom, witnessed to by his patience, astonished the most astute among the Doctors of the Law. Many were envious of his talents, and yet He treated them with compassion. He was inspired only by one ideal: God the Father towards whom He had a profound reverence, and a zeal for His Law. He was persistent on defence of divine honour. He had in him a spirit of sacrifice, love and of mortification with an intense hatred for pride. He spent the day among the crowds who sought Him for spiritual and temporal welfare. He loved his widowed mother so much that as He was dying on the cross, He left her in the care of one of his apostles.
Read More(I Have Met Him)
Preca Publications has recently published the second edition of the book Jien Iltqajt Miegħu (I Have Met Him). The Society of Christian Doctrine had published this book for the first time in 1985, on the occasion of the International Year of the Youth. In this book, penned by Joe Fenech, a member of the Society, we read about thirteen characters of the Gospel, where they talk about their meeting with Jesus Christ, how he touched their heart and changed their life. These thirteen characters are not fictitious or imaginary, but true men and women, and they really met Jesus. Their testimonies are an invitation to us, that we, as well, draw closer to him, to know him and love him more.
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