Page 27 - INTRODUCTION_LETTER 1824_1825

Letter 4

TO THE SAME

She encourages her to respond to the call of the Divine Spouse and cast
aside worldly vanities - She expects greater confidence in her - She asks
for a prayer to Maria Bambina.

Dearly beloved Sister,

HAIL TO THE LOVE OF JESUS – AND OF MARY

I avail myself of the opportunity offered by the return
home of a person from your place to send you what I have
written.
Your last letter brought me much joy, seeing that my
advice had left a sweet impression on you. This is because
your spirit is so receptive to the voice of our Lover Jesus who
in various ways is calling you to follow him. I beseech you,

Marianna, don’t let the most sweet calling of the divine Spouse
fall on deaf ears, but respond at once, like Samuel: «Speak,
Lord, speak, for your handmaid is listening»; do speak to your
servant-girl who with deep delight is listening to you. And then,
once you understand what the Lord expects from you, set
about carrying it out with a rejoicing heart. I trust that worldly
vanities have no hold on your heart, which should belong
entirely to Jesus. But suppose they do a little bit, (since these

- 15 -