Glorious St. Joseph, model of all who are devoted to labor, obtain for me the grace to work in the spirit of penance in expiation of my many sins; to work conscientiously by placing love of duty above my inclinations; to gratefully and joyously deem it an honor to employ and to develop by labor the gifts I have received from God, to work methodically, peacefully, and in moderation and patience, without ever shrinking from it through weariness or difficulty to work; above all, with purity of intention and unselfishness, having unceasingly before my eyes death and the account I have to render of time lost, talents unused, good not done, and vain complacency in success, so baneful to the work of God. All for Jesus, all for Mary, all to imitate thee, O patriarch St. Joseph! This shall be my motto for life and eternity. - Prayer of Pius X

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Nyssan on Hospitality

One of my students quoted this pearl in his paper on hospitality. Thanks Brian.

"Words are united to deeds with regard to what is true, and the Lord does not say that salvation consists in words but in deeds which effect salvation (Matthew 7:21). Thus we are responsible to follow his command. Let no one say that it is sufficient to send food to people not involved in our lives. This does not reveal mercy but an outward show in order to remove such persons from our presence. Do not their lives put us to shame and make us like dogs? A hunter does not avoid the lairs of young animals and the farmer knows how to care for calves; many such examples may be offered. Even the traveler washes the feet of his ass, takes care of its wounds, and cleanses its stable of dung. Will we refuse to neglect human beings and their beasts? No, my brothers, no. Let us not have this attitude towards our fellow men."

- From a homily of Gregory of Nyssa, "As You Did It To One Of These"

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