Spiritual Success

   If we wish to achieve success in any endeavor there are processes we must follow and trials we must overcome.  To obtain a good education it is necessary to not only attend class but put forth the effort to gain as much knowledge as is being offered.  Career success requires some sacrifice and hard work.  There will be times when succeeding requires changing our plans and devoting more time to our efforts.

   One of the best ways to help ourselves in our efforts is to look for examples among those who have achieved success in our chosen field.  In the business world it is very common to have a mentor to provide some extra guidance to help us along the way.  Those seeking to be doctors work with experienced doctors to draw from their knowledge.  In most areas there are great benefits to be gained by following the example of those who have been successful.

   Success in spiritual matters is no different.  If we truly want to grow spiritually we need to apply the same effort and techniques as in any other worthy endeavor.  Thankfully there are numerous examples for us to look to for help in our growth.  We need to take full advantage of those who have gone before us and emulate their ways.  By this route we can follow the path of the saints all the way to heaven.

   Of course the first and foremost example is Jesus.  No other example is necessary in our efforts but Him.  However, there are many others we can look to as well.  The lives of the apostles; the early Christians who underwent great persecution; the many martyrs of the church provide wonderful examples of spiritual success and strength.  Today there are still those to whom we can look for helpful guidance.

   I have found that learning from the saints and the lives they led has deepened my faith in so many ways. When I look at Saint Francis I see joy in simplicity and love of our Lord.  In Saint Damian of Molokai I see the love of those shunned by society, the lepers.  Saint Theresa of Calcutta demonstrates great love of the poor and the outcasts of society.  Saint Maximilian Kolbe chose to give up his own life to save another in the concentration camps of Hitler.

   These are just a few examples of those we can look to for strength and guidance in our spiritual lives.  There are many, many others, whether recognized saints or not who give us great hope that we too can grow in spirituality and gain eternity in the presence of our Lord.

   Start with Jesus, there is no better example.  Then look to others whose lives in Christ may speak to you in a special way.  Study them, come to know them, and try to follow their ways.  Through the grace of God spiritual success is there for each of us.  With forgiveness, love and devotion we can join the saints in the glory of God.