Such richness is always consistent with Scripture and the teaching of the Church. Is it important that there be this kind of complimenting? Absolutely. Just as we would not toss marshmallows into beef stew, we don't ladle conflicting teachings onto our storehouse of treasured scriptures. Such mixtures could result in everything from an unpleasant taste to (depending on the added ingredient) something harmful to our physical or spiritual health.
Looking back over my mix of holy influences is turning out to be a marvelous exercise - sort of like tracing my spiritual family tree.
Taking stock of some of the saints whose writings first formed me, I find (very close to the 'base') St. Teresa of Avila. When I discovered her Spiritual Autobiography and Soliloquies in the 1980s, I felt I had found a friend for life.
'O Lord my God,' wrote this wise, mystical, practical Doctor of the Church, 'how You possess the words of eternal life, where all mortals will find what they desire if they want to seek it! But what a strange thing, my God, that we forget Your words in the madness and sickness our evil deeds cause! O my God, God, God, author of all creation!... bring it about... that my thoughts not withdraw from Your words.' (Soliloquies)
'Lazarus did not ask You to raise him up. You did it for a woman sinner; behold one here, my God and a much greater one; let Your mercy shine. I although miserable, ask life for those who do not want to ask it of You.' (Soliloquies)
'O Life, Who gives life to all! Do not deny me this sweetest water that You promise to all who want it. I want it, Lord, and I beg for it, and I come to You. Don't hide Yourself, Lord, from me, since You know my need and that this water is the true medicine for a soul wounded with love for You.' (Soliloquies)
Such beautiful words she wrote. It leaves you yearning for more, doesn't it? Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, and thanks!
DeleteLove the St. Teresa of Avila quotes! Magnificent! Especially the Lazarus prayer! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI was particularly struck by the Lazarus prayer as well, and want to remember to add it to my own daily prayers. Thank you, Anne!
DeleteI agree with Kathleen, it does make you want more of St Teresa's words..and passion for Christ.
ReplyDeleteA "spiritual family tree" is a beautiful image.
blessings..Trish
When I first discovered St. Teresa, I wanted to devour everything she'd ever written.... and, as much as I could, I did! Thanks so much, Trish.
DeleteBeautiful post! I pray for so many whose spiritual stew has marshmallows added to it. Especially family members.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Patty. It's so distressing to find those marshmallows added in, isn't it? I pray as well.
DeleteHi Nancy,
ReplyDeleteSt. Teresa of Avila was my first "spiritual director" too. Not that I understood all that much of her writing at first. Still, she is a great inspiration to me and also my Patron saint (I was born on her feast day.)
(Lol: I probably shouldn't tell you this but my mom used to beg her for her help when I was a teenager. She'd throw up her hands in disgust and say, "She's all yours St. Teresa!" I guess St. Teresa takes her job seriously :)
I love your analogy of a "spiritual stew"!
I am smiling as I imagine St. Teresa hearing your mom's words as a definite prayer! Yes, I'd say the great saint has been watching over you... awesome thought.
DeleteThanks, Mary!