Day 2 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross Novena for the Discerning Heart

Day 2 – Truth and Love

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

Do not accept anything as the truth if it lacks love. And do not accept anything as love which lacks truth!*

In these words, Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross underscores the inseparability of truth and love. She suggests that genuine truth must be compassionate, and real love must be grounded in truth. This perspective encourages a balanced approach to understanding and relationships, where both heart and mind play crucial roles. Edith Stein, known for her deep philosophical inquiry and eventual conversion to Catholicism, exemplified the pursuit of truth as a journey towards God’s love.

Do not accept anything as the truth if it lacks love. And do not accept anything as love which lacks truth!*

How can you ensure that your pursuit of truth is always guided by love, and that your expressions of love are grounded in truth?  Seek to speak and act with both compassion and integrity, ensuring that your actions are rooted in the teachings of Christ. Let love and truth guide your interactions, reflecting the harmony between them as taught in Catholic doctrine. This alignment not only fosters authentic relationships but also strengthens your witness as a follower of Christ.

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

All-powerful, ever-living God,
  you gave Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
  the courage to witness to the gospel of Christ
  even to the point of giving her life for it.
By her prayers, help us to endure all suffering for love of you
  and to seek you with all our hearts,
  for you alone are the source of life.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
*Citation: Edith Stein, The Collected Works of Edith Stein, Volume 4: The Hidden Life. Translated by Waltraut Stein (ICS Publications, 1992), p. 92.

For the complete 9-Day St. Teresa of Benedicta Novena for the Discerning Hearts visit here