WITNESS THROUGH HOLINESS

Divine Appeal Reflection - 143

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 143:  "My thirst for souls is ever new. Hunt souls for Me. My Love is always the same."

By encouraging us to live out the Gospel every day, our Adorable Jesus encourages us to "hunt souls" for Him. Because holiness is both a personal journey and a mission for the conversion of others, St. Paul exhorts us to follow Christ's example in whatever we do (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:1). We fulfill Jesus' charge to be the light of the world when we live moral lives, which shine brightly and attract others to us (cf. Matthew 5:14). Holiness, which exudes the splendor of God's transforming love, is the cornerstone of our Christian witness.

The holiness our Adorable Jesus desires is not extraordinary but lived in the simplicity of daily virtue. By being humble, patient, loving, and obedient, we mirror His divine essence. Our deeds speak louder than words about the joy and serenity that result from living a life centered on Him. According to Scripture, when others witness the manifestation of the deeds of light in the life of Christians, they are drawn to virtue (cf. Ephesians 5:8-10). A person's holiness can inspire others to pursue Christ in addition to being a personal treasure.

Holiness also requires a commitment to prayer and the sacraments. We are strengthened to live as His witnesses by regular Eucharistic communion, where our Adorable Jesus feeds us with His Body and Blood (cf. John 6:56). Our hearts are purified by reconciliation, which also restores us to grace and gives us the ability to show others His mercy. Our relationship with God is strengthened by daily prayer, which also enables us to recognize and sincerely follow out His will. According to Scripture, the righteous' prayers have the capacity and efficacy to bring people nearer to Him (cf. James 5:16).

Our Adorable Jesus thirsts for souls, and holiness is the means by which we can quench that thirst. Acts of charity, compassion, and selflessness demonstrate His love to the world. By being patient in trials and forgiving those who wrong us, we show that God’s grace works powerfully within us (cf. Colossians 3:12-14). The joy and peace that flow from a life of virtue naturally inspire others to seek the source of that light.

Holiness has a profound impact on others. When we live as Christ’s witnesses, we become instruments of His grace, leading souls to Him. St. Catherine of Siena reminds us that being who God calls us to be will ignite the world with His love. Through our fidelity, we fulfill the mission of our Adorable Jesus, whose unchanging love and thirst for souls compel us to labor tirelessly for their salvation (cf. 2 Timothy 4:7-8).

In answering this call, we embrace our role as His disciples, reflecting His light in every aspect of life. Let us pray for the grace to live holy lives, trusting that through our witness, others will encounter the merciful love of our Adorable Jesus and be drawn into His eternal embrace.

Prayer

Our Adorable Jesus, Your love for souls is infinite. Fill our hearts with the desire to bring others to You through holiness and virtue. Teach us to reflect Your light in all we do. Strengthen us in prayer, guide us by Your mercy, and make us faithful witnesses.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.