Ave Maria Meditations
One day, while speaking of an exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Gemma wrote: “Yesterday, in the presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament I felt myself burning so fiercely that I had to go away. I felt stunned that so many could stay so near to Jesus and not be reduced to ashes. I felt I should be consumed. Jesus is such a sweet irresistible Lover; how can one fail to love Him with one’s whole heart and soul? How can one not wish to be wholly absorbed in Him, and consumed in the flames of His holy love ?
During one of her ecstasies she said: “Oh Lord, You have not given me earthly and perishing riches, but the true riches, the nourishment of the Eucharistic Word. What should I be had I not dedicated to the Sacred Host all my affections? Come, come Jesus, for I long for You day and night. Yes, I want You every hour and every moment, I want none but You. You alone Jesus can satisfy me. Jesus, when I find myself in Your presence all my sufferings vanish at once.”
Here is a prayer composed by St. Gemma Galgani to obtain a desired grace:
Behold me at Your most holy feet, O dear Jesus, to manifest to you my gratitude for the continual favors which You have bestowed upon me, and still wish to bestow upon me. As many times as I have invoked You, O Jesus, You have made me content; I have often had recourse to You and You have always consoled me. How shall I express myself to You, dear Jesus? I thank you! Yet one more grace I desire of you, O my God, if it would be pleasing to You (here mention your request). If you were not omnipotent, I would not make this request. O Jesus, have pity on me. May your most holy will be done in all things”
(St. Gemma’s Feast Day is April 11th)
Such a beautiful meditation from St. Gemma Galgani. I don’t think that I can ever understand her relationship with Jesus Christ. Our Lord favored her with so many ecstasies. She spoke so freely to Our Lord, & Our Lady. She called Our Lady, “Mom”.