Faith on the Quad Making it Count

Feb 3, 2009

As a success driven people, we want to contribute something great to society. Ours is a competitive culture which values hard work and great achievements; and most are willing to dedicate years of their lives to intense work and study. Yet, hidden among such noble aspirations is often a misunderstanding of the real value and meaning of our works.

"Without love, deeds, even the most brilliant, count as nothing." St. Therese

It is no wonder that our culture values hard work and the success that comes with it-- these fruits can easily be seen. But St. Therese reminds us to view our lives in the light of reality: that is, in their total spiritual worth. She boldly proclaims that if our works are not acts of love, they do not count. Perfecting our talents, gaining consummate knowledge, and even serving others are nothing if they are not acts of love. And though we know many of our works lack this crucial element, it often seems too difficult to practice.

" . . . without Me, you can do nothing." Jn 15:5

If we allow Him, Christ will not simply assist us: He will act through us. Blessed Mother Theresa explained that her difficult work was made possible only by prayer and thus committed herself to four hours daily. In our quest to grow in love, we have the opportunity to encounter God who is love in prayer. It is this encounter that enables us to radiate His love to others, "...for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks." Lk 6:45 If we allow God to fill our hearts, we will be transformed. And when our actions pour out from the abundance of our prayer, our active lives will be changed as well.

When consecrated to Christ, and done in love, the smallest of our works takes on the most extraordinary value. By making a simple offering of our daily works, we can begin to pray always-- mindful, however, that we cannot pray always if we do not also dedicate times specifically for prayer alone. (CCC 2697)

Yet, how easy it is to get caught up in the rush of daily life: If we are not careful, our prayer gets pushed to the end of the day when our minds are tired and slow, and God receives last place instead of first. We need to take practical measures to ensure (and indeed, schedule) a life of consistent prayer. Whether meditating on the mysteries of the Holy Rosary or kneeling silently before the Blessed Sacrament, Christ will transform us in His love as we pray:

"I will run in the way of Thy commandments, when Thou enlargest my heart." Psalm 119