"Do everything for the glory of God." I Corinthians 10:31
As freshmen in a Jesuit high school, we translated early on the Jesuit motto "ad maiorem Dei gloriam," for the greater glory of God. That was my introduction to Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, whose Feast we celebrate today with special readings.
Severely injured in battle 500 years ago, this knight had a dramatic conversion during his recovery in Loyola, Spain. He internalized the absolute priority of spiritual formation. Ignatius' Spiritual Exercises—contemplative steps for illumination and freedom for service, which are the fruit of his own intense search for God--became the key to self-renewal for his Society of Jesus and their students.
Ignatius intended for the Society to minister to the poor and disadvantaged, educate the young, and proclaim the Gospel, especially in the newly discovered nations of the 16th century. Jesuits became renowned for their missionary and educational achievements: all for "the greater glory of God."
A key aspect of Ignatian spirituality is discernment: learning not only to sense the presence and the tug of God within our own hearts, but also to read "the signs of the times" and respond by bringing about a fuller life and justice in our world.
How do I keep ever ready to discern and respond to God's presence in everything?
Come, Holy Spirit, re-energize me so that I live each day for God's glory.
Today's Reflection is by:
Fr. Kevin Mackin OFM
Did you know...
Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, of St. Anthony Friary in St. Petersburg, has served in parish ministry and chaplaincy, and as a college president and professor. His articles and books include Enjoying God's Gifts; Get Thee Behind Me, Satan: Rejecting Evil; and Christian Unity: The Next Step 'That They May All Be One.' His website is www.FatherKevin.com
