Thérèse recalls her earliest memories at three and four years old, overflowing with the sweet tender love of her Father and Mother and sisters that God desired for her.
A moment from their life
Thérèse recalls her earliest memories at three and four years old, overflowing with the sweet tender love of her Father and Mother and sisters that God desired for her.
Historical context
St Therese of Lisieux was born on January 2, 1873, and was the daughter of lacemaker Marie-Azelie Guerin (or Zelie), and Louis Martin who was a jeweler and watchmaker.
This chapter focusing on her early years would have been set around 1870s to 1880s in Alencon France.
Scripture
Psalm 23
The Lord is my Shepherd and I shall want nothing. He hath set me in a place of pasture. He hath brought me up on the water of refreshment. He hath converted my soul. He hath led me on the paths of justice for His own Name’s sake. For though I should walk in the midst of the shadow of death, I will fear no evils for Thou are with me.
Reflection
The Little Way begins with understanding that the lowly flower created by God is beautiful, that the brilliance of the rose and the whiteness of the lily do not lessen the perfume of the violet or the sweet simplicity of the daisy
A small practice
Notice one act of love from someone today, and offer a prayer of thanks to God.
Prayer
“My God, I choose everything, I will not be a Saint by halves, I am not afraid of suffering for Thee, I only fear one thing, and that is to do my own will. Accept the offering of my will, for I choose all that Thou willest.”
Journal prompt
Where has God been good to me in my childhood?
What is God asking me to sacrifice?