Mortification – one of Vincent’s five smooth stones.
Vincent’s perspective…
“Service to God’s people demands a price. Christians must put aside their own prejudices, comfortable circumstances, and favorite ideas in order to do the will of God.”
From Praying with Vincent de Paul Thomas McKenna
- How would you define mortification?
- When was the last time you gave up something good to do a better thing?
- How do you experience mortification in your daily life?
Some signs of growth
- Is self-disciplined
- Is able to delay gratification
- Willingly sacrifices personal convenience, comfort, goals, needs and security to enter into the world of the poor
- Understands the central role of the cross in following Christ the Evangelizer of the poor
- Is capable of fulfilling duties and obligations when they are not necessarily to his liking (without complaining)
Some signs for need growth
- Is undisciplined in his appetites and desires
- Does not fulfill his unpleasant but necessary obligations and duties
- Complains often
- Is unwilling to sacrifice personal convenience, comfort and security for the good of the mission
- Puts personal well being before the needs of the community and the poor
Emmet Nolan, cm
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