The piercing nail has become a key to unlock the door, that I may see the good will of the Lord. And what can I see as I look through the hole? Both the nail and the wound cry out that God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself... Through these sacred wounds we can see the secret of his heart, the great mystery of love.

Neither fear nor self-interest can convert the soul. They may change the appearance, perhaps even the conduct, but never the object of supreme desire... Fear is the motive which constrains the slave; greed binds the selfish man, by which he is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust and enticed (James 1:14). But neither fear nor self-interest is undefiled, nor can they convert the soul. Only charity can convert the soul, freeing it from unworthy motives.

We find rest in those we love, and we provide a resting place in ourselves for those who love us.

The more I contemplate God, the more God looks on me. The more I pray to him, the more he thinks of me too.

God will either give us what we ask, or what He knows to be better for us.

And truly, O man, if you concentrate hard on the state you are in it will be surprising if you have time for anything else.

It is a fault, not a virtue, to wish your humility recognized and applauded.