Episode 2459: Insights from the Saints - Morning Episode

Insights from the Saints
Welcome to today’s episode, where we will explore the profound and transforming power of divine love from a traditional Catholic perspective. Throughout the ages, the saints have given us great wisdom about love’s role in the spiritual life. St. Teresa of Avila, Thomas à Kempis, and the prophet Isaiah remind us that love is at the center of our journey toward God. Today, we will reflect on how these teachings can guide us in living out our faith more fully and finding perfect peace in the love of God.
St. Teresa of Avila - The Love That Transforms
St. Teresa of Avila, also known as St. Teresa of Jesus, was a mystic and Doctor of the Church who emphasized the importance of making frequent acts of love toward God. She said, "Accustom yourself continually to make many acts of love, for they enkindle and melt the soul." Here, St. Teresa is teaching us that love is not just a fleeting emotion but a conscious choice, an act of the will that must be practiced continually. These acts of love have a transformative power they enkindle the fire of divine love within our hearts and melt away the coldness of sin and selfishness.

In her writings, St. Teresa often spoke about the soul’s journey toward union with God, which is achieved through prayer, humility, and, above all, love. By making frequent acts of love, we keep our hearts aligned with God’s will, allowing His grace to work more deeply in us. This continual turning of the heart toward God in love purifies the soul and leads us to deeper communion with Him.
Thomas à Kempis - The Sweetness and Strength of Love
Thomas à Kempis, author of The Imitation of Christ, beautifully captures the essence of divine love in his words: "Nothing is sweeter than love; nothing stronger, nothing higher, nothing more generous, nothing more pleasant, nothing fuller or better in Heaven or on earth; for love proceeds from God and cannot rest but in God above all things created." In this reflection, Thomas reminds us that true love is not of this world it comes from God and can only find its rest in God.
This understanding of love elevates it far beyond any earthly affection. Divine love is the foundation of all virtue, the source of all strength, and the ultimate goal of our lives. As Catholics, we are called to cultivate this love in our hearts and allow it to shape every aspect of our lives. When we love God above all things, our love for others becomes pure and selfless, reflecting the love of Christ.
The Peace That Comes from Trusting in God's Love
The prophet Isaiah speaks to the peace that comes from keeping our hearts and minds fixed on God. In Isaiah 26:3-4, we read, "Thou dost keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusts in thee. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock." This passage highlights the connection between love, trust, and peace. When we place our trust in God, and when our love for Him is steadfast, He grants us His perfect peace.
This perfect peace is not merely the absence of conflict or stress; it is the deep, abiding tranquility that comes from knowing we are loved by God and that He is in control of our lives. This peace is a fruit of the Holy Spirit and a sign that our hearts are resting in God’s love. By continually making acts of love, as St. Teresa advised, and by keeping our minds stayed on God, as Isaiah teaches, we can experience this peace even in the midst of life’s challenges.
Conclusion
As we conclude today’s reflection, let us remember that divine love is the source of all virtue and the key to true peace. Through the wisdom of the saints, we learn that love is not just an emotion but a constant, deliberate turning of the heart toward God. St. Teresa of Avila reminds us to make frequent acts of love, Thomas à Kempis shows us the incomparable strength and sweetness of love, and the prophet Isaiah assures us that trusting in God’s love brings perfect peace. Let us strive to cultivate this divine love in our lives and share it with others, knowing that it leads us to union with God and eternal happiness.
Closing Prayer
O God of Love,
We thank You for the gift of Your divine love, which surpasses all understanding. Help us to grow in our love for You and for our neighbor each day. May we always seek You in everything we do, trusting in Your grace and resting in Your peace. Through the intercession of St. Teresa of Avila, Thomas à Kempis, and all the saints, grant us the strength to make frequent acts of love and to keep our minds and hearts fixed on You. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.