Saint Faustina Kowalska, known as the apostle of mercy, left us in her Diary ardent words of love centered on the mystery of Divine Mercy; it is a work of over 600 pages, written in the form of memoirs at Jesus’ specific request and on the orders of her confessors and superiors.
How is perfection attained?
Saint Faustina Kowalska was a Polish religious sister who lived between 1905 and 1938. The recipient of visions and revelations that her confessors advised her to record in a diary, she did not think these extraordinary events were a sign of holiness. Kowalska wrote that perfection is attained through the intimate union of the soul with God, not through “graces, revelations, ecstasies.”
These are rather means of the divine invitation addressed to her, so that she might draw attention to what has already been said, namely, the passages of Sacred Scripture that speak of Divine Mercy, and then foster among believers trust in the Lord and the desire to become merciful themselves.
The Diary of Saint Faustina Kowalska: a testimony to Divine Mercy
Her Diary, entitled “Divine Mercy in My Soul,” is the primary document bearing witness to her mystical experience and mission.
In her Diary, Saint Faustina recounted her conversations with Jesus, her visions, divine revelations, and spiritual inspirations that she received during her religious life. These experiences included visions of Jesus, Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven, as well as detailed instructions that Jesus gave her concerning the promotion of devotion to Divine Mercy.
A source of spiritual inspiration for all Christians
The Diary is a source of spiritual inspiration for all Christians because it presents the merciful face of God the Father, who does not want the sinner to die, but rather to repent and live. The Diary is also an invitation to trust in Jesus, imitate him in charity toward others, and spread his message of salvation throughout the world.
Starting every day on the right foot
Saint Faustina's Diary is a rich treasure trove of thoughts and teachings that nourish the soul. If every morning, in addition to the day's readings, we could also focus our attention on a thought to accompany us until evening, it would be a good practice. The “Jesus, I trust in you” tear-off calendar from Shalom Publishers offers precisely this opportunity. Each day, it presents a quote from the Diary for reflection and spiritual growth. The calendar also includes the readings for Mass, the day's Gospel passage, the readings for the Liturgy of the Hours, the saint celebrated by the Church, and the liturgical celebration rank. Truly a valuable daily point of reference.
Saint Faustina's Diary received greater attention and importance after her canonization and is now considered valuable reading for the faithful. Have you ever read it? If so, has it nourished your spiritual life? Share it in the comments.
