Look upon yourself as the servant of all, but without ostentation, or
their having any knowledge of it.
Repeat to yourself sometimes the words of the Blessed Virgin Mary: "Behold
the handmaid of the LORD," and those of our LORD, "I came not to be
ministered unto, but to minister;" and then act towards others as if you
were their slave, warning, aiding, listening; abashed at what they do for
you, and always seeming pleased at anything they may require you to do for
them.
Oh! if you knew the full meaning of these words, all they signify of
reward in heaven, of joy and peace on earth, how you would love them!
Oh! if you would only make them the rule of your life and conduct, how
happy you would be yourself, and how happy you would make others!
Happy in the approval of conscience, that whispers, "You have done as
CHRIST would have done."
Happy in the thought of the reward promised to those who give even a cup
of cold water in the name of JESUS CHRIST; happy in the assurance that GOD
will do for you what you have done for others.
Oh! what matters then ingratitude, forgetfulness, contempt, and scorn?
They will pain, no doubt, but will have no power to sadden or discourage.
Precious counsel, inspired by CHRIST Himself, I bless you for all the good
you have done me!
When first those words found entrance to my heart, they brought with them
_peace_ and _strength_ to stand against _deception_, _desertion_,
_discouragement_ and the _resolute will_ to live a life more devoted to
GOD, more united to Him, more contented, and ever pressing onward towards
heaven. Once more, I bless you!
Precious counsels, enlighten, guide, and lead me.