Today we read in In Caelo et in Terra about a woman named Narcisa who lived in Ecuador. Her parents were both devout Catholics, and she felt from a young age that she was called to religious life, but perhaps as a layperson. She took vows of virginity, poverty, and obedience. She began working with the poor and practicing severe penances that no one knew about until after her death. She worked and lived with the Dominicans in her later years, and one day her fellow sisters smelled a beautiful aroma coming from her room. When they entered, they found that she had left this world for heaven. Only her battered body remained. You can read more about her here.
St Narcisa practiced extreme penances, meaning she beat herself and deprived herself of food and comfort in perhaps an unhealthy way. Not all of us are called to that practice, and most spiritual directors advise against it.
But all of us DO face suffering in this life. And when we try hard to do His will, we face more suffering. Let us, like St Narcisa, embrace our cross and carry it joyfully alongside our Savior.
God, thanks for the holy example of this dedicated woman. St Narcisa de Jesus, pray for us.
No comments:
Post a Comment