St. Teresa of Avila once said, “I do not remember even now that I have ever asked anything of him which he has failed to grant…I wish I could persuade everyone to be devoted to this glorious saint, for I have long experience of the great blessings which he can obtain from God. I have never known anyone who was truly devoted to him and who rendered him particular services who did not totally advance in virtue, for he gives very real help to souls who commend themselves to him.”
Lent is here and without giving it much thought, we’ve probably found something to “give up.” After years of Lent, this is a common attitude. But will our penance be a sweet sacrificial offering to God, or a superficial response given from our surplus and spurious half-hearted piety? What will motivate us to take a giant leap of faith?