Page:HalfHoursWithTheSaints.djvu/59

 But while  we  perform  them  with  all  the  peaceful  diligence which  the  presence  of  God  inspires,  we  must  jealously realise that  they  are  means,  not  ends,  subordinate  and  subservient to  the  great  work  of  our  souls. No amount  of external  work,  not  the  unsleeping  universal  heroism  of  a St.  Vincent  de  Paul,  can  make  up  for  the  want  of  attention to our  own  souls,  such  as  resting  in  our  external  work would imply.

Hence we  should  be  jealous  of  any  great  pleasure  in  our pursuits, even  when  they  are  works  of  Christian  mercy and love. It is  always  a  pleasure  to  do  good,  yet  it  must be watched,  moderated,  and  kept  in  check,  or  it  will  do  us a  mischief  before  we  are  aware. The thought  of  eternity is a  good  help  to  this. It brings  down  the  pride  of  external work, and  takes  the  brightness  and  colour  out  of  our  successes;  and  this  is  well,  for  such  brightness  and  colour  are nothing more  than  the  reflection  of  ourselves  and  our  own activity.

Father Faber.

''Growth in Holiness