Page 8 - SPIRITUAL EXERCISES 1832

THIRD MEDITATION

As I was mentally quite tired, I could not force my mind
any further, and so for this Meditation I took my place as a
beggar at the door of the Heart of my Jesus, waiting for Him
graciously to open it and let me in. I did my best to stay in His
presence in holy quiet, and to listen to his voice. For some
time I was quiet, and I enjoyed staying with my God, but then a
certain restlessness harassed me now and then, preventing
me from enjoying his presence perfectly well.

Resolutions: To abandon myself entirely in the hands
of my God and to frequently study the virtues of his Divine
Heart.
In this Meditation I had some distractions, but also
considerable quiet. It must have lasted ¾ of an hour. I did it
partly seated and partly on my knees.

Particular Examination of conscience. Today I was
unable to follow the method fixed for Spiritual Exercises, and
carried out my normal practices when I could. By chance I saw
in a little boy something ‘against modesty’, and some time later
I was a bit disturbed by the thought of it, but I just paid no heed
to it and remained perfectly quiet. A thought of self-
complacency crossed my mind; this is truly my predominant
passion.
I spent the day very peacefully and with gladness of
heart, with my whole being absorbed in God.

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