TUESDAY, TWENTY SIXTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Feast of Saint Therese of Lisieux, Doctor of the Church & Patron of Missions
Is 66: 10-14 Ps 131: 1-3 Mt 18: 1-5
EXPERIENCING THE FULLNESS OF JOY
Today we celebrate St. Thérèse of Lisieux, who is also known as “The Little Flower.” She is renowned for her profound and simple spirituality, which deeply emphasized ‘Joy’ as a central aspect of the Christian life. Her understanding of joy is rooted in her “Little Way,” a path of spiritual childhood that highlights humility, trust, and love. St. Thérèse believed that true joy comes from embracing the simplicity of life and trusting completely in God’s love. She found immense joy in life’s everyday moments and the many little acts of love and devotion. Her approach was not about seeking extraordinary experiences or achievements but finding joy in small, humble acts of kindness and faithfulness. This perspective is captured in her famous saying, “I will spend my heaven doing good on earth.” Her joy was not limited to moments of comfort and ease. Even in suffering, she maintained a deep sense of peace and joy. She faced illness and the challenges of convent life with a serene trust in God’s plan. Her joy was rooted in her unwavering confidence in God’s providence and love, demonstrating that true joy transcends external circumstances.
Joy is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:22-23). Living in harmony with the Holy Spirit inevitably results in profound and lasting joy. This joy offers a deep sense of thankfulness and contentment that transcends fleeting enjoyment. Additionally, it shares a close relationship with the theological virtues of faith, hope and charity. Catholics who practice these find delight in God’s will and acknowledge His presence in all things. The teachings of the Church and the example of Jesus Christ are firmly rooted in joy. Joy is a deep reaction to leading a life of faith nourished by the Holy Spirit, not just a transient emotion. The Bible often exhorts Christians to rejoice, as demonstrated by St. Paul’s words, “Rejoice in the Lord always…” This is discovering a profound, enduring peace and fulfilment in one’s relationship with God, not just about feeling joyful.
The significance of being joyful in the spiritual life was also highlighted by saints such as St. Teresa of Avila. She urged her sisters to find happiness in their relationship with God, even amid trying circumstances. She saw joy as an indication of a strong spiritual bond and faith in God’s purpose. We are encouraged to approach all that we do with a feeling of purpose and joy, knowing they are part of God’s larger plan and contributing to the well-being of others, whether they are carrying out daily chores or conducting acts of service.
In the readings today, there is a profound sense of heavenly satisfaction and group celebration, which provides a deep and vivid meditation on joy. Jerusalem is described as a place of comfort and joy, where God’s plentiful gifts will be felt by the city’s inhabitants, who will flourish like a newborn in a mother’s arms. It is clear that God’s promises and presence are closely related to joy. The joy shown is a result of God’s deep, caring love for His people rather than being fleeting or surface-level. The image of a flourishing Jerusalem and joyful people emphasizes how true contentment is brought about by God’s blessings.
Thérèse’s “Little Way” is a key to understanding her joy. It emphasizes that spiritual perfection is not achieved through grand gestures but through small, everyday actions done with great love. This approach teaches that joy can be experienced in the mundane and that every moment offers an opportunity to grow closer to God. She also advocated for a childlike trust in God, characterized by simplicity and openness. This trust allows one to approach God without pretense or fear, finding joy in a relationship that is grounded in love and dependence. Thérèse’s writings foster a joyful and deep connection with God. Her spiritual insights focus on the themes of love and gratitude. Thérèse taught that joy flows from a heart filled with love and gratitude toward God. By appreciating the small blessings in life and maintaining a grateful attitude, one can experience profound and lasting joy. Let us pray for the grace to be like St. Therese, happy and joyful.
Response: Keep my soul in peace at your side, O Lord.
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