Day 8 – 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 8 – Love of Neighbor

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

Our love of neighbour is the measure of our love of God. For Christians—and not only for them—no one is a ‘stranger’. The love of Christ knows no borders.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross emphasizes the universal call to love, suggesting that our love for others reflects our love for God. This love transcends boundaries, reaching beyond personal preferences and prejudices to embrace all people. Edith Stein, through her writings and her life, including her solidarity with her Jewish heritage during the Holocaust, demonstrated an expansive and inclusive love rooted in God’s example. This perspective challenges us to practice inclusive and unconditional love, mirroring Christ’s boundless love for humanity.

Our love of neighbour is the measure of our love of God. For Christians—and not only for them—no one is a ‘stranger’. The love of Christ knows no borders.*

How can you expand your understanding of love to include all people, regardless of differences?
Strive to see each person as a child of God, deserving of love and respect. Actively work to break down barriers of prejudice and division, and seek to serve others with compassion and humility, reflecting the inclusive love of Christ. Engage in acts of charity and outreach, particularly those who are marginalized or in need, embodying the Christian call to love without limits.

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, On the Mystery of Christmas (Intellectual Charity, 2012), p. 25

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