Midweek Devotion 16 October 2024

Reading

Proverbs 17:22

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

Devotion

Michael Corsini - Catholic Artist

Yesterday, October 15, was the feast day of one of my all time favorites, Teresa of Avila (1515-1582).  Spanish Carmelite nun, mystic, author, and reformer, but above all someone who at the end of her life could utter these last words, "My Lord, it is time to move on. Well then, may your will be done. O my Lord and my Spouse, the hour that I have longed for has come. It is time to meet one another."

Today's painting is the work of modern Catholic artist, Michael Corsini.  He has a whimsical style.  From his website, "I believe that beautiful sacred art is both prophetic and healing.  Art is an essential part of the Church’s proclamation of the Gospel.  I often say, “the spiritual healing and renewal needed in our time, begins through an encounter with Beauty; the kind of beauty that reveals Christ, and allows for Him to do His Work.” "

I agree with him.  Today's work features Teresa in the mud laughing at heaven.  I like how the horse is looking on.  The painting is based upon this story of Teresa.  Once upon a time she was riding through the back roads of Spain during a torrential rainstorm. Her horse-drawn cart hit a huge pothole and collapsed, throwing her head-first into the mud. Teresa complained to Jesus at being treated in this manner in the midst of trying to serve Him. The voice of Jesus then came to her from the heavens: "This is how I treat my friends, Teresa." Wiping the mud from her face, she replied, "No wonder you have so few!"  She is also quoted as saying "From silly devotions and sour-faced saints, good Lord, deliver us"

I love the intimacy revealed in being able to have such a conversation! The joyful, light-heartedness that comes from a relationship with the Divine brings life and hope.  What about you, dear reader?  Are you a sour-faced saint?  Or can you laugh as you argue with God?

Prayer

Let nothing disturb you.

Let nothing make you afraid.

All things are passing.

God alone never changes.

Patience gains all things.

If you have God you will want for nothing.

God alone suffices.

(From the breviary of Teresa of Avila)