Audacity

"O God, be merciful to me a sinner." - Lk 18:13

The "Little Flower," St. Thérèse of Lisieux, said she could glean from a look at the Gospels a secret of attracting God's mercy. At the end of her autobiography, she writes:

I don't hasten to the first place but to the last; rather than advance like the Pharisee, I repeat, filled with confidence, the publican's humble prayer. Most of all I imitate the conduct of Magdalene; her astonishing or rather her loving audacity which charms the Heart of Jesus also attracts my own. Yes, I feel it; even though I had on my conscience all the sins that can be committed, I would go, my heart broken with sorrow, and throw myself into Jesus' arms, for I know how much He loves the prodigal child who returns to Him.

The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Publican) referenced by St. Thérèse shows an extreme contrast in attitudes. One approaches the Lord boldly with pride; the other with trust and humility.

The Pharisee boldly praises his own fulfillment of deeds before the Lord. The tax collector, however, also shows a boldness. He dares to examine his conscience and rely completely on God's mercy. This Lent, we can show pride in ourselves or humble trust in God's mercy. Choose your audacity.

Prayer: Lord, please help me to imitate the tax collector's humility and St. Thérèse's bold trust.

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