15 October 2022 Saint Teresa of Avila

I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power.
From Ephesians 1: 15-23, NRSV

This is a beautiful prayer – and we can only imagine how the first hearers felt as the words were read out to them. It is to our benefit that they are included in the canon of scripture so that we too can read them and know of that prayer for us. It is a mighty thought that the writer was praying not only for the Ephesians but for everyone who reads the Letter. And, it is powerful to think – not just the writer but those Ephesians – and many others who have heard those words – felt their power – and wish future generations to know the truth of them. Today is the feast of St. Teresa of Avila. Through her reflections and writing she also tried to communicate something of the deep and passionate love of God and of God’s desire that all would know the hope that this love ensures.

• • How do you think the Ephesians felt when they heard the Letter being read to them?
  • As you read the prayer – how easy is it for you to imagine its being directed to you as well as to the Ephesians?

Spend some time today simply praying the words of the Reading. Read it through slowly and allow the words to sink into your heart. Make a mental – “soul”- note of any that seem to speak particularly to you.

Image – St. Teresa of Avila – Rubens