St. Gertrude the Great, born Hermann-Jude Stoß, was a German theologian, mystic, and Doctor of the Church, known for her profound insights into God's love and mercy. Her works, including the "Herald of God's Love" and "Spiritual Exercises," offer a wealth of spiritual wisdom, often expressed through poignant quotes. Let's delve into some of St. Gertrude's most significant quotes, categorized for ease of understanding.
St. Gertrude's writings exile us from mere intellectual assent to God, propelling us into a profound, experiential encounter with His love. Her works, translated into several languages, have influenced numerous souls, including St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross. Let's explore her rich spiritual legacy through her words.
Experiencing God's Love
St. Gertrude emphasizes the importance of not just knowing God, but experiencing His love. She writes, "To know God and to experience His love: this is eternal life."
In her "Herald of God's Love," she explains, "Just as the sun gives light, heat, and life to everything on earth, so too does God, out of the abundance of His love, pour forth His benefits on all His creatures."
The Heart's Transformation
The heart's transformation, according to St. Gertrude, is pivotal in experiencing God's love. She quotes, "God looks not so much at what we do, as at the love with which we do it."
She further elaborates, "The purer the love, the greater the merit. To work without love is to work without reward."
Trust in God's Love
Trust in God's love is another theme St. Gertrude expounds upon. She states, "When we feel the burden of our sins and failings, we should remember the words of Jesus, 'Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.'"
She continues, "He wants us to trust in His love even more than we trust in our own breath. The more we trust Him, the more He will reveal Himself to us."
Growing in Holiness
St. Gertrude's spirituality is not just about experiencing God's love but also growing in holiness in response to this love. She asserts, "Holiness is nothing else but love."
She also writes, "To grow in holiness, we must grow in the love of God and neighbor. The more we love God, the more He will plant in us a love for our neighbor."
Prayer as the Key to Holiness
Prayer is the key to growing in holiness, according to St. Gertrude. She quotes, "Prayer is the heart's simplest and most efficacious act. It is the act of love that inclines the heart to God."
She elaborates, "In prayer, we learn to listen more than we speak. We open ourselves to God's call and allow Him to enkindle within us the flame of His love."
The Path of Suffering
St. Gertrude also teaches that the path to holiness often passes through suffering. She writes, "Suffering, accepted in love, is a shortcut to holiness."
She further explains, "In the school of suffering, God teaches us the alphabet of love. Each trial is an opportunity to deepen our trust in Him and our love for Him and our neighbor."
In the wise words of St. Gertrude, "Love is the fulfilling of the law. When you are truly in love with God, you will keep His commandments without difficulty." Let her insights guide us in our spiritual journey, drawing us ever closer to the heart of God.