Mt 7:14: For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life…

A want of will is the chief obstacle to our becoming saints. We are not holy because we do not really wish to become so. We would indeed gladly possess the virtues of the saints: their humility and patience, their love of suffering, penance and zeal– but we are unwilling to embrace all that goes to make a saint and to enter on the narrow path that leads to sanctity.

A strong will, a resolute will, is needed; a will which is not to be broken by difficulties or turned aside by trifling obstacles; a determination to be a saint and not to faint and falter because the way seems long and hard and narrow. A big heart, a courageous heart, is needed for sanctification, to fight our own worst enemy: our own self love.

+ Fr. Willie Doyle S.J.

The post Do I Want to be a Saint? first appeared on AirMaria.com.

Ave Maria Meditations

By her simple fiat, Mary brought to pass the most wondrous miracle of all time. In silent expectation the heavenly court had watched the great Archangel speed on his way towards the humble home of Nazareth. With joy they heard the Virgin’s humble words of meek submission which brought the Maker of the world to dwell within her womb, and now they see their God, the great God of all creatures dwelling as a little babe among sinful men.

What must have been Mary’s thoughts when first she felt the infant child within her womb, and realized that from her pure blood He had fashion to Himself a human form? She, His Mother! He her Son! What sweet converse between the two, what words of love, of ardent, tender love, the promptings of a heart so pure and good and holy.

+Fr. Willie Doyle S. J.

The post Behold the Handmaid of the Lord first appeared on AirMaria.com.

When God lays a cross upon us, some misfortune, or some unexpected burden, instead of thanking Him for this precious gift too often we rebel against His will. We forget that our Savior never sends across alone, but ever sweetens its bitterness, lightens its weight by His all powerful grace.

With reluctance, with unwillingness, Simon bears the cross of his Master. At first his spirit revolted against this injustice, he probably rebelled against this ignominy. But once he excepted with resignation, his soul was filled with heavenly sweetness, he felt not the weight of the heavy beams, he did not mind the jibes of the multitude but pressed on after his Master, proud to be His follower.

+Fr. William Doyle, S.J.

The post Like the Cyrenian first appeared on AirMaria.com.