OUR ACTIONS AND SERVICES HAVE VALUE ONLY TO THE EXTENT THAT WE DO WHAT THE MASTER ASKS OF US

It is only when we see our desires in the light of the Word and will of God, that we will have peace and bear fruit.

Unfortunately, only too often, and I shudder as I say it, we find great sinners amongst the preachers, confessors and all those ministers who are slaves to their whims. The saints are found amongst the obedient, modestly accepting their missions in a quite different way. In God’s name, ponder on these reflections.
Whoever we are, we are unprofitable servants in Our Father’s house. Our actions and the services we render have value only to the extent that we do what the Master asks of us.
It will go hard with anyone who turns up his nose at the least important tasks because he believes himself suitable for more lofty ones. His reckoning will be swift. Not only that, before long he will find himself with a new master: Lucifer for Jesus Christ. Believe me. I speak from experience. I could cite more examples than I can count on the fingers of my hand.

To Jean Baptiste Mille, 30 May 1832, EO VIII n 423

This entry was posted in WRITINGS. Bookmark the permalink.

1 Response to OUR ACTIONS AND SERVICES HAVE VALUE ONLY TO THE EXTENT THAT WE DO WHAT THE MASTER ASKS OF US

  1. Eleanor Rabnett, Oblate Associate says:

    As I read and ponder Eugene’s words this morning, I am reminded of Henri Tempier’s response to Eugene’s invitation to join him and few others to preach the Good News to the poor. Tempier’s response was filled with enthusiasm and gratitude. He acknowledged that he might not be the best of preachers however he would most gladly take part in catechetical classes, in hearing confessions and “all other means” that were required to establish the kingdom of Jesus Christ. In other words – whatever God asked him to do.

    In my parish there is a lady who every Monday collects the used altar linens – the purificators, corporals, altar cloths and other items that need to be laundered and then returns them cleaned and ironed ready for the next weekend. She does this with joy and gratitude. A small and hidden labour of love – for God and for her community. This would come under those “all other means” that Henri Tempier wrote about.

    The words “helpers in the Lord’s vineyards” come to mind.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *