XIII.
The Power of an Act of Love Towards God
Have you ever reflected upon this?
Let us consider the exact words that describe it.
Try and repeat these words slowly, [pg 170] so that each may penetrate deep into your heart.
Do you not feel moved, as if your whole being in these words went forth to God, offering to Him life itself?
Do you not feel, in making this Act of Love, you give far more than if you gave your wealth, influence, or time; nay, rather does not this very act seem to bring you riches, strength, opportunities, all that you possess?
Picture to yourself, standing before you, a child—a child perhaps who may have injured you deeply, and yet whose sincerity at this moment you cannot doubt, who is actuated neither by fear nor self-seeking, but simply by a penitent heart, and who comes to say to you words of love, such as those above, do you feel no emotion, no feeling of pity?
I defy you to be without some emotion, not to feel your arms extending, perhaps in spite of you, to embrace [pg 171] this poor child, and not to answer, "I also love thee."
I have yet another test to put to you, poor, desolate, guilty, hopeless as you are, seeing only within and around you, fears, terror, and—ay, let me say it—damnation.