Day 7: Novena to Blessed Teresa of Calcutta

Day 7: Novena to Blessed Teresa of Calcutta

Seventh Day: God loves a cheerful giver

"To bring joy into our very soul the good God has given Himself to us... Joy is not simply a matter of temperament. In the service of God and souls, it is always hard--all the more reason why we should try to acquire it and make it grow in our hearts. Joy is prayer. Joy is strength. Joy is love. Joy is a net of love by which you can catch many souls. God loves a cheerful giver. He gives most, who gives with joy. If in the work you have difficulties and you accept them with joy, with a big smile, in this like in any other things others will see your good work and glorify the Father. The best way to show your gratitude to God and people is to accept everything with joy. A joyful heart is the normal result of a heart burning with love."

"Without joy there is no love, and love without joy is not true love. And so, we need to bring that love and that joy into the world of today."

"Joy was the strength of Our Lady, too. Our Lady was the first Missionary of Charity. She was the first one to receive Jesus physically and to carry Jesus to others. And she went in haste. Only joy could give her this strength and swiftness to go and do the work of a handmaid."

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Joy is the sign of union with God, of God's presence. Joy is love, the normal result of a heart burning with love."

ASK FOR THE GRACE TO FIND JOY IN LOVING AND TO SHARE THIS JOY WITH EVERYONE YOU MEET.

Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, you allowed the thirsting love of Jesus on the cross to become a living flame within you, and so became the light of His love to all. Obtain from the heart of Jesus (here make your request). Teach me to allow Jesus to penetrate and possess my whole being so completely that my life, too, may radiate His light and love to others. Amen.

Immaculate Heart of Mary, cause of our joy, pray for me.

Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, pray for me.