left Quote ST PHILIP NERI (1515-1595)

“A cheerful heart is the surest sign of the presence of God. For when the heart is in God, it cannot be sad. But it will show in the way we behave. Our joy should not depend on things, but on the peace of Christ that reigns in our soul…. The devil is afraid of people who are joyful, because they live the fullness of Christ’s love in a way that attracts others.  Be cheerful in your faith, and people will come to understand it by your example.”

 

 

 

 

 

In their many different idioms the classical spiritual writers have attempted to throw light on the eternal question of union with God. 
Every month we give you a brief passage from a spiritual classic.