God's love is an exercise of his goodness toward sinners who merit only condemnation.
J. I. PackerRead
I understood that the Church had a Heart, and that this Heart was burning with love.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the Church's essence as a source of love and compassion.
The quote by Thérèse of Lisieux expresses the profound understanding that the Church is not merely an institution but embodies a compassionate heart filled with love. This perspective highlights the Church's role in nurturing a sense of belonging, care, and spiritual guidance, emphasizing that the true essence of faith lies in love and empathy towards others.
In practice
In a sermon, to illustrate the importance of love in faith.
God's love is an exercise of his goodness toward sinners who merit only condemnation.
Love fills everything. It cannot be desired because it is an end in itself. It cannot betray because it has nothing to do with possession. It cannot be held prisoner because it is a river and will overflow its banks. Anyone who tries to imprison love will cut off the spring that feeds it, and the trapped water will grow stagnant.
Lovers embrace that which is between them rather than each other.
If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you.
It is not necessary to teach others, to cure them or to improve them; it is only necessary to live among them, sharing the human condition and being present to them in love.
Love. Be curious. Always try to do your best.
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