It can be very difficult in today’s society to not only recognize God’s call for us, but to act on God’s call with fervent love and devotion. It is inspiring to read about how St. Rose of Lima, when faced with such strong opposition from those around her, went against the grain and devoted her entire life to Christ. Such a weighty decision takes strength: strength which few possess.
When viewed today, St. Rose of Lima’s actions can seem extreme. However, there is a less extreme message that we can take from her with us in our daily lives: orient your life less towards worldly temptations and more towards Christ. This could mean something as simple as sacrificing an hour of TV time and spending it at Holy Hour, or in private prayer. Reflecting on St. Rose of Lima helps us to recognize the small steps we can take toward sainthood and towards a more enriched faith life with Christ.
Reflection Question: How can we work to discipline ourselves in a world which is so oriented towards our temptations?
Biography: http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/13192c.htm
Reflection: https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-rose-of-lima/
Photo credit: Lawrence OP via Foter.com / CC BY-NC