The Saving Word

Mary:

My child, learn to speak as an apostle, in order to spread the spirit of Christ about you. Do not say, “I have no opportunity of doing so.” The opportunity exists, look for it: if none exists, create one. Child of light as you are, must I send you to the children of darkness to learn a few lessons? They know how to find opportunities all about them for disseminating their false doctrines: in the intimacy of a conversation, in the street, in the workshop, in the train, and even in their amusements. Can you not do for the salvation of souls what they do for the ruin of them? And do not forget: If you think you are powerless to do good, what you lack is not the opportunity for good, but the fire of apostolic zeal. Come and renew it on Calvary, and you will find abundant opportunities to spread it far and wide.

2. To speak as an apostle, you need not preach. On all occasions, let your religious convictions inspire your words. Whether your talk be of persons, things, or events, let your thoughts be those of Christ, and dare to express them.
Seldom dispute with adversaries; never humiliate them. Simply explain your ideas. Truth by its very nature is attractive, for it is the truth which sets men free. Of itself it is made to conquer, because its splendor invites assent. Do not imagine that you must ordinarily make long discourses. A short explanation, a discreet counsel, a simple reflection, sometimes a mere interjection may suffice to make a sincere soul find the light.

3. Remember, the thing which convinces people is not so much what you say as what you are. Speak simply but courageously: the infallible truth is yours. Let people feel that you are deeply convinced of what you say. If your life always conforms to your teaching, they will readily believe you. Let them see that you are more interested in doing good to others than in winning a victory. Study the doctrine of Christ incessantly so that you will live it better and bear more witness to it by your life. Become an expert in your profession. If you are competent in your trade or profession, you will be considered an authority in your teaching of religious doctrine.

4. It is only after a long apprenticeship that you will become skillful in the apostolate of speech. Before each conversation, ask me to dictate what you should say. After talking, examine in my presence whether you have been successful in making someone better and happier, and see how you can be more successful next time. The more you allow yourself to be directed by me in this apprenticeship, the more rapid and perfect will be your progress. It is for me and through me that you should become an apostle.

The Faithful Soul:
Mary, I admit that I have rarely tried to propagate your Son’s doctrine, because in my social contacts I was preoccupied only about myself. Henceforth I will think of Jesus and souls. I will pray to you before speaking, and you will let me know what I am to say.