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Imitation of Christ,
by Thomas á Kempis: Book 3, Chapter 40
Wherefore, but
I did know well, how to cast from me all human comfort, either for the sake
of devotion, or through the necessity by which I am compelled to seek Thee,
because there is no man that can comfort me. Then might I deservedly hope
in Thy favor, and rejoice in the gift of a new consolation. Thanks be to
Thee from Whom all things proceed, as often as it happens to me. I, indeed,
am but vanity, and nothing in Thy sight , an inconstant and weak man. Where,
therefore, can I glory, or for what do I desire to be thought of highly?
Forsooth of my very nothingness; and this is most vain. Truly vainglory is
an evil plague, because it draws away from true glory, and robs us of heavenly
grace. For, while a man takes complacency in himself, he displeases Thee;
while he wants for human applause, he is deprived of true virtues. But true,
glory and holy exultation is to glory in Thee, and not in one's self; to
rejoice in Thy Name, but not in one's own strength. To find pleasure in no
creature, save only for Thy sake. Let Thy Name be praised, not mine; let
Thy work be magnified, not mine; let Thy Holy Name be blessed, but let nothing
be attributed to me of the praise of men. Thou art my glory; Thou art the
exultation of my heart; in Thee, will I glory and rejoice all the day; but
for myself, I will glory in nothing but in my infirmities.
Prayers
for the 12-Day Preparatory Period |
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