Consequence of True Spirit of Love

If we are truly animated by the spirit of love, we shall always treat all with love, look on all with love, think of all with love and speak of all with love. (OOCC, III, p. 338)

A perspective based on love, for St. Vincent Pallotti, is the consequence of a person possessing the true spirit of love within him. The outlook of such a person is animated by love. He treats all with love, looks on all with love, thinks of all with love and speaks of all with love. Thus, love becomes the dynamic and powerful force within him, and from this dynamism he receives the strength and courage to do great things for God and others. As love takes hold of him, he has the energy and determination to give himself totally to others without any expectations. He is patient and kind. He is neither jealous nor snobbish. He does not show off. He is never rude nor hurting in his remarks. He does not seek his own interest. He is calm, peaceful and does not show any signs of irritation or anger. He takes the hurts he receives from others lightly and does not spend time thinking about them. He does not rejoice when things go wrong in others’ lives, but instead reaches out to help them. He is happy when good things happen in the lives of others. He is ready to suffer, trust, hope and persevere in the good he wishes to do for others. These are some of the consequent qualities true spirit of love leaves on a person who possesses it. Such a true spirit of love guided St. Vincent Pallotti in his life.

Am I animated by a true spirit of love in my life? Am I able to view everything that happens in my life from the perspective of love? Is love that dynamic force within me that gives me the energy to accomplish God’s plan for me here on earth? Do I possess the qualities of love?

For you were called for freedom, brothers. But do not use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh; rather serve one another through love. (Gal. 5: 13 –14)