Theological Foundations new file

96 Theological Foundations fortitude. This last gift in particular manifested itself very clearly in their lives because, equipped with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, they were able to proclaim Christ’s Gospel openly even though earlier, when their Master had suffered, they had fled in fear. But now, as they had under- gone a spiritual transformation, they themselves were able to convert pagans to the true faith, to bear many persecutions and, finally, to accept cruel death in His name with joy. While they had not understood even this one word “maluczko” before the Spirit as Comforter came upon them, later, as they were enlightened and transformed by Him, they were able to interpret the announcements of the prophets and obtained perfect knowledge in all areas. Thus prepared, they taught the whole world and, as the Church sings about them today, “Their voices resound throughout the world, and their words to the ends of the earth.” It is such magnifi- cent fruits as these that can be seen when God’s goodness seemingly leaves the human soul. This act of apparent separation does not deprive the soul of its merits, does not diminish its virtues, and is not an obsta- cle to its spiritual rebirth and salvation. To the contrary, by transforming the soul, it strengthens its resolve in adversities and perseverance in good deeds, and brings a beneficial change. 1 God’s gifts are always preceded by suffering which is a sign of God’s grace that the human soul is to receive. “Seldom are we closer to God than when we are oppressed” — the Venerable Servant of God repeats after Drexelius. And, echoing the words of the prophet, he says: “His way is in whirlwind and storm” (Nahum 1, 3). “He comes to man with a bang and roar when his soul is frightened and contrite. Moreover, He comes from on high, sent by Christ from the immortal, triumphant cas- tle of the Heavenly King. I say this to you, the blows of the evil spirits erupting from the swamp of hell reach man as gentle whispers and flat- ter him pleasantly. But, having departed, they leave behind thousands of remorses, thousands of stings, thousands of terrible pains. The Lord’s Spirit, in turn, comes in a strong wind, He comes with a roar after a period of oppression and suffering, He is mighty and terrible, but when He departs, He leaves many gifts behind: various joys, thousands of