IMITATION OF CHRIST: Meditation of the day...

*I am now on book two of the Imitation of Christ...I will be meditating on this wonderful book for the rest of the year...pick up a copy at the library, bookstore, or read online. It is one of the oldest and best spiritual books I have ever encountered...ask your priest or spiritual director for advice to fit your state in life. +JMJ+

BOOK TWO
THE INTERIOR LIFE
The First Chapter
MEDITATION

THE kingdom of God is within you," says the Lord.

Turn, then, to God with all your heart. Forsake this wretched world and your soul shall find rest. Learn to despise external things, to devote yourself to those that are within, and you will see the kingdom of God come unto you, that kingdom which is peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, gifts not given to the impious. (we need to find peace in God and not of the world)

Christ will come to you offering His consolation, if you prepare a fit dwelling for Him in your heart, whose beauty and glory, wherein He takes delight, are all from within. His visits with the inward man are frequent, His communion sweet and full of consolation, His peace great, and His intimacy wonderful indeed. (have purity of intention and a well formed conscience)

Therefore, faithful soul, prepare your heart for this Bridegroom that He may come and dwell within you; He Himself says: "If any one love Me, he will keep My word, and My Father will love him, and We will come to him, and will make Our abode with him." (frequent the sacraments in your state in life)

THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+