St. Thérèse continues, “I understood that if all the lowly flowers wished to be roses, nature would no longer be enamelled with lovely hues. And so it is in the world of souls, Our lord's living garden.”
This reflection, that the vivid splendor of each flower does not detract from the goodness of another, is, in its essence, a complete juxtaposition to how much of the world views greatness. Each flower has a singular design and reason, and is magnificent in this individuality. At the same time, the delight caused by a bouquet exquisitely arranged or wildflowers dappled across a field does not emanate from a single flower, but from the fullness of the collective beauty.
“And so it is in the world of souls.” As much as we may try to build ourselves into replicas of others or establish our own glory, we will never be as grand as when we learn to live in the Lord’s garden. This requires the ability to humble ourselves, act in His will, and recognize the goodness of the diversity of the garden. Only then can the Church genuinely reflect His majesty.
Many men and women have lived their lives in this way; seeking to serve, love, and find joy in Him. In humility, they recognized the limitations of their own humanity, and through grace, were able to unite their lives to a will and mission greater than their own. They grew into the precise flowers they were designed to be; nothing more and nothing less. These are the people we call the Saints.
This podcast is devoted to exploring their lives and learning from their legacies. Through the stories shared, we hope to acquaint you with our brothers and sisters in Heaven so that they may embolden you in your journey towards Christ through the Church.
