Quote: December 14

“We should strive to model our actions on those of the Blessed Virgin, for the greatest honor we can offer her is to imitate her virtues.”

~ St. Louise de Marillac

Blessed Mother, I rededicate myself to you today, asking that you keep me from all harm. Obtain all the graces I need to lead a holy life totally committed to Jesus, your son.

Quote: December 13

“Bitterness never served any purposes than to embitter.”

~ St. Vincent de Paul

Remove from my heart, O Lord, all traces of hatred and resentment when wrongfully treated, remembering that they serve no purpose but to harm me and displease you.

Quote: December 12

“Clothe yourselves with the dispositions which animated your Master. When he approached a sick person, it was always in the name of the Father, and by the virtue of the Holy Spirit; thus you would always bring with you the goodness and tenderness, the love and mercy of the Father and in your speech and actions remain dependent on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.”

~ St. Vincent de Paul

Lord, keep me from acting from purely human motives, remembering that whenever I see a poor person, I see you, or if I give to the poor, it is you, Jesus, who receives the gift.

Quote: December 11

“Never be hurried by anything whatever, and nothing can be more pressing than the necessity for your peace before God – commit everything to him that passes through your hands; you will help others more by the peace and tranquility of your heart than by any eagerness or care you can bestow on them.”

~ St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

Peace and tranquility are infectious. I know it is possible to experience this state of heart even when the outcome of a situation has been bleak. Committing all to you ahead of time can make that possible, Lord.

Quote: December 10

“I have always shunned performing good deeds in one place to gain credit in another.”

~ St. Vincent de Paul

Heavenly Lord, preserve me from that way of the world which is always seeking its own gain for actions performed for others.

Quote: December 9

“Remember, roses cannot be gathered except amid thorns.”

~ St. Vincent de Paul

Lord, it has been said that we appreciate most things for which we work the hardest. May no fear of obstacles deter me from doing your will today.

Quote: December 8

“We should overcome our sensitiveness, paying little attention as to whether we are addressed or not, or to the degree of affability with which we are treated, but let us try to gain all hearts by cordiality and support.”

~ St. Louise de Marillac

Lord, no matter how crowded my schedule may be, help me to have a positive attitude toward everyone I meet today, avoiding abruptness and impatience that will do nothing to draw them to you.