Q&A: I just can’t seem to engage in the “perfect practice” i..e climb Montfort’s ladder: do everything with, through, in and for . . . I am so frustrated by Montfort’s formula for perfect devotion! Can you help me?
Father J. Patrick Gaffney, SMM
Wonderful! It shows that you are not watering down Saint Louis de Montfort’s spiritual path by ignoring the interior practices. After all, they are essential to the living of Montfort’s spirituality and without them we make no progress on our Marian journey to the brightness of the Triune God.
On the other hand, your short note indicates that it may not be long before your frustration turns into rejection. Don’t turn back. Slowly, patiently and perseveringly, calmly live in, with, for Mary so that you may more intimately live in, with, for Jesus Christ.
How? Follow the practical advice the saint gives us. At the start of any important action, empty yourself of your half-hearted spirit, empty yourself of yourself, i.e., your pride with all its ramifications. And then sincerely open your empty heart to the influence of Mary. Remember, the only way that she can influence you is in accord with her personality. And she is totally transparent of God. She can only center you on her Son. Her influence is the sharing of her immaculate faith in God. She fills you with faith in her Divine Son.
For example, before celebrating Mass, the priest can easily say in his heart, “Lord, I empty my heart of myself and I take on the dispositions of Mary so that I may more worthily offer this Sacrifice.” Receiving Holy Communion, similar words can be used. Before undertaking work, before beginning a new task, before walking into a discussion, etc., make this emptying-filling a practice. At first, it may be a little difficult and at times it will be forgotten. But quickly it becomes a peaceful habit.
No need for frustration, then! And by this first step in living through, with, in and for Mary, you’ll find that you will live far more fruitfully, far more intimately in Christ Jesus. You will find that your actions are being done in the spirit of the Gospel, more than ever before.
