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Holy Cross Abbey

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Feast Day of Saint Thérèse

October 1, 2021 by Fr Joseph

The citizens of Capernaum’s prideful quest for exaltation will result (according to Jesus in today’s gospel), with their ignominious descent into the netherworld. That is somewhere near where the Babylonian exiles found themselves, burdened with what the text describes as their being flushed with shame—this shame reflecting, perhaps, their now wounded pridefulness. The “Little Way” of Saint Thérèse avoids both the descent into the netherworld and the shame often associated with humiliated pride. Seeking neither exaltation nor indulging self-deprecation, Thérèse, (fully aware of her sinfulness and limitations), simply embraced her creatureliness and in casting herself again and again upon the mercy of God, trusted unhesitatingly in his saving and transforming love. As a result, she not only escaped descent into the netherworld, but was—to use her quaint imagery—raised to the heights as if by an elevator! In casting herself upon the mercy of God, Thérèse was not merely seeking forgiveness or mercy but, even more, the One who bestowed these and who alone could free her from her sins. Given Thérèse’s special bond with so many Cistercians, let us invoke her intercession so that we too may keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and never allow either pride or shame to prevent us casting ourselves, repeatedly upon his mercy, forgiveness, and unfailing and eternal love.

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