A Calm Spirit and a Holy Simplicity

March 6.

The shadow of a great rock in a weary land.

ISAIAH 32, verse 2.


In returning and rest shall ye be saved;
in quietness and in confidence
shall be your strength.

ISAIAH 30, verse 15.


O Shadow in a sultry land!
We gather to Thy breast,
Whose love, enfolding like the night,
Brings quietude and rest,
Glimpse of the fairer life to be,
In foretaste here possessed.

C. M. PACKARD.


Strive to see God in all things without exception,
and-acquiesce in His will with absolute submission.
Do everything for God, uniting yourself to Him
by a mere upward glance, or by the overflowing
of your heart towards Him. Never be in a hurry;
do everything quietly and in a calm spirit.
Do not lose your inward peace for anything
whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset.
Commend all to God, and then lie still and be at
rest in His bosom. Whatever happens, abide
steadfast in a determination to cling simply to
God, trusting to His eternal love for you;
and if you find that you have wandered forth
from this shelter, recall your heart quietly
and simply. Maintain a holy simplicity of mind,
and do not smother yourself with a host of
cares, wishes, or longings, under any pretext.

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES.