Quote: December 7

“Charity is not charity if unaccompanied by justice or if it suffers us to do more than we can reasonably perform.”

~ St. Vincent de Paul

Make me, O Lord, not only more sensitive to the silent cries of my poor and downtrodden brothers and sisters, but above all, their need to be heard and justly treated.

Quote: December 6

“Indiscreet zeal is not good … people often spoil good works by rushing ahead and by acting according to their own inclinations which, contrary to common sense, make them think that the good they see to be done is feasible and timely, although this is not so; their error is recognized in the resulting lack of success.”

~ St. Vincent de Paul

O God, sometimes I discourage others by holding to my own ideas because I think they are superior to theirs. Forgive me for this, and give me the humility to listen and be open to others.

Quote: December 5

“I must jog along the allotted path through all its windings and weariness until it brings me home where all tears shall be wiped away, and sorrow and sighing be heard no more. In the meanwhile, Courage!”

~ St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

My way to you, Lord, has often been hampered by attachment to the many “idols” in my life which serve to distract me from where you want me to go. Give me the courage to identify these “idols” and root them out of my life.

Quote: December 4

“Raise your soul to God and listen to what He will tell you on the subject.”

~ St. Vincent de Paul

When decision-making is particularly difficult today, Lord, I will take a few moments to seek your counsel.

Quote: December 3

“If the love of God is a fire, zeal is its flame; if love is a sun, zeal is its ray.”

~ St. Vincent de Paul

O God, may the work of my hands be done with enthusiasm as well as efficiency. Help me give all my work today that extra touch of fervor.

Quote: December 2

“The world sometimes censures us for not conforming to certain of its requirements; but it is edified when it discovers that we are influenced by principles of virtue, whilst it justly condemns those who are gained over by its false applause.”

~ St. Louise de Marillac

Heavenly Lord, give me the courage to be more assertive in defending my personal values and the teaching of my faith when challenged to do so.

Quote: December 1

“It does not suffice for me to love God if my neighbor does not love him.”

~ St. Vincent de Paul

Lord, you have graced me with your love in so many countless ways. Make me aware of opportunities to make you known to those who don’t know you.