I have just finished a book written by Dorothy Scallan called "The Whole World Will Love Me". What a wonderful book! It is about St. Therese of the Child Jesus and of the Holy Face. One of the things I really liked about the book was it's focus on the second part of her name which highlights her devotion to the image of our Lord on Veronica's veil. I learned so much about the life of St. Therese and I feel that I will reread this book again and again. I was so interested in the story I am sure that I missed some very profound meditations that deserve futher thought and consideration. Here is a poem written by Therese while she was a Carmelite Nun that really shows her love for and devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus.
Living On Love
Jesus, Your ineffable image
Is the star which guides my steps.
Ah, You know, Your sweet Face
Is for me Heaven on earth.
My love discovers the charms
Of Your Face adorned with tears.
I smile through my own tears
when I contemplate Your sorrows.
Oh to console You I want
to live unknown on earth!
Your beauty, which You know how to veil,
Discloses for me all it's mystery.
I would like to fly away to You!
Your Face in my only homeland.
It's my kingdom of love.
It's my cheerful meadow.
Each day, my sweet sun.
It's the Lily of the Valley
whose mysterious perfume
Consoles my exiled soul,
Making it taste the peace of Heaven.
It's my Rest, my Sweetness
And my melodious Lyre
Your Face, O my Sweet Savior,
Is the Divine Bouquet of Myrrh
I want to keep on my heart!
Your Face is my only wealth.
I ask for nothing more.
Hiding myself in it umceasingly.
I will resemble You, Jesus
Leave in me, the Divine Impress
Of Your features filled with sweetness,
And soon I'll become holy.
I shall draw hearts to You.
So that I may gather
A beautiful golden harvest,
Deign to set me aflame with Your Fire.
With Your adorned mouth,
Give me soon the Eternal Kiss!
