For the past three Monday’s I’ve reflected on the general structure and spirituality of the Maxims of the Little Institute written for the first Sisters of St. Joseph by Fr. Jean-Pierre Médaille, SJ. This week I’ll begin a weekly reflection on a particular maxim or part of a maxim. Some maxims are quite long. Others very short. I don’t intend to go in order. But for this week, I will reflect a little on Maxim 1.
Keep always in mind the aim of your vocation which is sublime; and never do anything which contradicts the commitment to a life full of modesty, gentleness, and holiness.
The word “aim” points toward the essence of our vocation. It is “sublime,” that is to say mystical. But it’s a mysticism lived out “with our feet on the street” [to quote Marcia Allen, CSJ]. Our vocation is lived in the midst of the here and now. In aiming at what is essential, we are always moving toward, always seeking “the more.”
Médaille also speaks of “gentleness.” In the original French the word used here is “douceur.” It’s a gentleness that seeks harmony, balance, right relationships. If Jean-Pierre Médaille was with us today he might encourage us to bring the relationship of God and humans together in the midst of this suffering world.
During the next few days, take time to ponder,
How am I keeping all the pieces of my life in balance so as to stay focused on what is essential?
How am I keeping all the pieces of my life in balance so as to stay focused on what is essential?
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