Have you ever wondered what childlike faith looks like in an
adult? Sometimes I wonder how a middle-aged adult like myself can “go back” to
such simple trust. The Complete Thérèse
of Lisieux, translated and edited by Robert J. Edmonson, helped me see a
beautiful example grounded in a beautiful, biblical understanding of God—fear
of the Lord based on tender, intimate love. I recommend reading this book in
quiet surroundings at a pace that allows pondering.
I’m not even sure why I bought this book. I am not Catholic.
I pray to Jesus, God the Father, the Holy Spirit and find no biblical basis for
praying to saints. But in fifth grade I chose Therese as my Catholic confirmation
name after Sainte Thérèse of Lisieux. I have no
recollection why. Perhaps it was that curiosity that led to the purchase in
Paraclete Press’ bookstore on Cape Cod. After reading the book, I still do not
remember what possessed my fifth-grade mind to choose Therese, but my adult
faith was enriched by reading about this humble saint.
The Complete Thérèse
of Lisieux consists not only of Thérèse Martin’s
autobiography “The Story of a Soul,” but also of her prayers, letters, and
poems, as well as “Remembrances of Thérèse by the Sisters of the
Lisieux Carmel,” her convent. Appendices include French and English versions of
the childhood poem that inspired Thérèse’s being known as “the
little flower,” a list of important dates in her life, and photographs. The
book is a lovely collection. Thérèse’s pure devotion to
Jesus is palpable on these pages.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment