589 chapter 4: the sacrifice of the mystical temple Virgin, I give myself completely, with all the thoughts, words and works of my whole life, particularly those of today, and all the hearts I have mentioned (as far as it is allowed) as much as I can, to your praise, and I desire very much to please you through all of them.”50 Protestation I protest, my God, Lord of infinite goodness and Majesty, that this day, and during my whole life, I do not want to contemplate, speak or do anything against your will. And so it will be done without my resolve and intention, if anything to the contrary happens; and that it may not happen, I most humbly beg Your Majesty having regard only for the love of You and Your glory. By such offerings and protestations we avoid many evils and achieve much good; most importantly, we are made most pleasing to God. I end this chapter with that golden saying of the Imitator of Christ:51 “The progress and perfection of man consists in offering yourself with all your heart to the divine will, not seeking your own interest in either small matters, or great, either in time, or in eternity; so that you may continue to be equally disposed in giving thanks, both in prosperity and adversity, weighing carefully all things in an equal balance.” (1. 3, c. 25).52 50 John of Jesus and Mary, The Instruction of Novices, P. IV, Ch. II: The Complete Works, vol. II, Cologne 1622, p. 307, D. 51 See above: Ch. III, footnote 42 (p. 584). 52 IC, Bk. III, Ch. 25.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjI2Mw==