Saints' Discussion Forums

'Lay to thy heart this example, which doth show thee how the Grace of God cometh to men. Seest thou those windows? One of them is wholly open, one open but a little way, and one less. Even by way of those which are shut fast there doth enter some of the Grace of God, since that there are certain tiny crevices therein. And by way of every one of those windows there doth enter something of the splendour of the sun, but here more and there less; for so much or so little brightness doth enter there within according as each is more or less open. So is it with those who wish for Grace from God, according as he doth dispose himself so hath he Grace: if he doth show himself very well disposed, God giveth him very much of it; if he doth show himself but little disposed, then God giveth him but little Grace. And to the man who doth shut himself away from it, even to him God would give of his Grace.'

St. Bernardine of Siena

This is reminding me of another quotation about the need for fervor in prayer too, and how we should pray to gain everything we need, including the gift of prayer itself.