MEDITATION:
Written by Thomas a Kempis (1380-1471), a German-Dutch priest and author of one of the most popular and best known Christian devotional book, “The Imitation of Christ” of which this is an excerpt.
When Jesus is near, all is well and nothing seems difficult. When He is absent, all is hard. When Jesus does not speak within, all other comfort is empty, but if He says only a word, it brings great consolation…Of all those who are dear to you, let Him be your special love. Let all things be loved for the sake of Jesus, but Jesus for His own sake. Jesus Christ must be loved alone with a special love, for He alone, of all friends, is good and faithful. Love Him, therefore, and keep Him as your friend; for when all others desert you, He will not abandon you, nor allow you to perish at the last. Whether you wish it or not, you must in the end be parted from them all. Hold fast to Jesus, both in life and death, and trust yourself to His faithfulness, for He alone can aid you when all others fail…He desires your heart for Himself alone, and to reign there as King on His throne.
PRAYER:
Written by Emilie Griffin, a contemporary American author who writes about religious experience and spiritual life.
Father in Heaven, thank you for the deep friendships you have given me, and for the wisdom to appreciate them. Thank you also for the presence of your Son. Amen.
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