Salesian Literature

Chapter 12:  Five Reflections for Renewal

Third Reflection: The example of the Saints

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Remember the example of the Saints in every condition of life.  What have they not done to love God, and to show him their devotion?  Look at those Martyrs unconquerable in their determination.  What torments have they not endured to be faithful?  Consider above all those beautiful women, in the prime of their youth, whiter than the lily in purity, redder than the rose in charity.  Some were twelve years of age, others thirteen, fifteen, twenty and twenty-five.  They suffered a thousand kinds of martyrdom rather than renounce their decision, not only regarding the profession of faith, but also regarding their commitment to devotion.  Some chose to die rather than forsake their virginity, other rather than giving up serving the sick, comforting the afflicted or burying the dead.  My God, what constancy has this weaker sex displayed on such occasions!

 

Think of the many holy Confessors: with what fortitude they renounced the world, how invincible they were in their resolutions!  Nothing could make them turn back from their resolutions.  They embraced them without conditions and kept them all without exception.  My God, what does St. Augustine say of his mother, Monica? With what firmness did she carry out her venture to serve God in her marriage and as a widow!  And how does St. Jerome speak about his dear daughter Paula?  She had to face such great misfortunes and all sorts of troubles!  What is there that we may not do following the example of such excellent patrons?  They were as we are.  They did it for the same God, for the same virtues.  Why can we not do as much according to our state of life for our Firm Resolution and holy affirmation.

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