Episode 2243: Be gentle to all, and stern with yourself - Morning Episode

Today, we'll explore the profound teachings of St. Teresa of Avila, Venerable Louis of Granada, and the book of Lamentations. We'll reflect on themes of gentleness, purity of intention, and self-examination, seeking to understand how these virtues can help us grow closer to God. Join us as we unpack these insights and learn how to apply them in our daily walk with Christ.
Gentleness and Self-Discipline
St. Teresa of Avila:
"Be gentle to all, and stern with yourself."
St. Teresa of Avila's exhortation calls us to embody a Christ-like gentleness toward others while maintaining a rigorous self-discipline. This duality is central to Christian virtue, where we are called to love our neighbors and strive for personal holiness.
From a traditional Catholic perspective, this teaching aligns with the call to love others as Christ loves us. It emphasizes humility and self-awareness, recognizing our own weaknesses and the need for constant spiritual growth. By being gentle with others, we reflect God’s mercy and compassion. Conversely, being stern with ourselves ensures that we remain vigilant against sin and complacency, fostering a spirit of continual conversion.
Purity of Intention and Zeal
Venerable Louis of Granada:
"[Purity of intention] which is intimately connected with zeal, enables us to forget ourselves in all things, and to seek first the glory of God and the accomplishment of His good pleasure... The practice of the moral virtues and the most severe mortifications are meritorious before God only inasmuch as they are animated by His Divine Spirit."
Venerable Louis of Granada emphasizes the importance of purity of intention in all our actions. He warns against self-love that can subtly taint our good works and stresses that true merit before God comes from actions done out of pure love for Him.
This teaching reminds us that in the Catholic tradition, the value of our actions is not measured by their grandeur but by the love and intention behind them. We are called to examine our motives constantly, ensuring they align with God's will. This purity of intention leads to genuine zeal for God's glory, transforming even the simplest acts into profound offerings of love.
Self-Examination and Returning to the Lord
Scripture Reading: Lamentations 3:37-41
"Who has commanded and it came to pass, unless the Lord has ordained it? Is it not from the mouth of the Most High that good and evil come? Why should a living man complain, a man, about the punishment of his sins? Let us test and examine our ways, and return to the Lord! Let us lift up our hearts and hands to God in heaven."
This passage from Lamentations calls us to recognize God's sovereignty and our own responsibility for sin. It urges us to test and examine our ways, leading to repentance and a heartfelt return to God.

In the Catholic tradition, this scripture underscores the importance of regular self-examination and repentance. By acknowledging that both good and difficult experiences come under God's providence, we are called to trust in His divine wisdom. This reflection leads us to humility, recognizing our need for God's grace and mercy, and encouraging us to lift our hearts and hands to Him in genuine contrition and hope.
Applying These Teachings:
Practice Gentleness: Make a conscious effort to be gentle and compassionate in your interactions, reflecting Christ's love to those around you.
Examine Intentions: Regularly assess the motives behind your actions, striving to act out of pure love for God and not for personal gain or recognition.
Self-Examination: Set aside time for daily or weekly self-examination, reflecting on your actions and seeking God's forgiveness and guidance for growth.
Trust in God’s Providence: Embrace the challenges and blessings of life as part of God’s plan, trusting that He works all things for the good of those who love Him.

Conclusion:
As we conclude today’s episode, let us take to heart the wisdom of St. Teresa of Avila, Venerable Louis of Granada, and the book of Lamentations. By cultivating gentleness, purity of intention, and a spirit of self-examination, we can grow closer to God and reflect His love more fully in our lives. Thank you for joining Me. May these reflections inspire you to live a life of deeper faith and love. Until next time, may God bless you and keep you in His grace.